child friendly places to visit in yorkshire

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31 Magical Yorkshire Family Attractions That’ll Make Your Holidays Complete

Looking for exciting things to do with kids in Yorkshire this summer? We’ve got you covered, from amazing woodland trails to exciting adventure parks where they can run wild. There is something for everyone in God’s Own Country. We’ve hunted for the lesser-known things to do in Yorkshire as well as some classics and curated some fun-filled things for you to do.

As well as our guide to the prettiest free castles and heritage houses and gardens , this guide has found the best things for kids to do to make the most of time out of the house with them. Make sure you bookmark any of your favourites and make your way through our ultimate checklist of family fun days out.

1. Wentworth Woodhouse, Rotherham – Things To Do With Kids Yorkshire

A Grade 1 listed country house in Wentworth, near Rotherham, Wentworth Woodhouse is one of the largest houses in Europe and always has a range of activities and events for families taking place throughout the year.

Once home to the Fitzwilliam family, the house was bought by Wentworth Woodhouse Preservation Trust in 2017 who organise guided tours of the house and fifty-acre gardens.

Wentworth, Rotherham S62 7TQ

2. Let Loose! Adventure Park, Beverley

Found in the heart of the East Riding of Yorkshire, this exciting adventure park has been open since 2017 and has caused quite a stir. It’s the perfect place to let your little tykes loose, it has a range of exciting things to do such as high ropes, zip lines, roller skating, and a super slide.

All of the above the kids will be buzzing as they play at this incredible park. Find out more  here .

Hull Rd, Woodmansey, Beverley HU17 0RS

3. Hole In The Wand Crazy Golf, York

Popular with Potter fans since its opening, The Hole In Wand allows visitors to take on wizard-themed holes with easter eggs from the show before enjoying magical refreshments such as Wand Dog, Uni-Pop Corn, Grobble-Nachos, alcoholic potions, and Butterbeer. Visit our write-up  here  for more info.

14-16 Coppergate Walk, York YO1 9NT

4. Falling Foss Tea Room, North York Moors

This magical woodland tea garden sits beneath a 30ft waterfall and is the perfect woodland walk for you and your family this summer. You can either take a two-mile walk or park up at the car park and enjoy a spot of tea.

You can find it just 6 miles outside of Whitby, and it has a natural play area and becks to paddle in. Check out Falling Foss Tea Garden here .

Midge Hall, Whitby YO22 5JD

5. Piglet’s Adventure Farm, North Yorkshire – Things To Do With Kids Yorkshire

Piglet’s Adventure Farm has a range of activities for the perfect day out with kids as well as events throughout the year including their pick-your-own pumpkins and Christmas event. The kids can play on their man-made beach whilst you sit in a deck chair and chill.

Or, they can let off steam in the playground before petting a range of animals in their petting zoos such as pigs, donkeys, Shetland ponies, rabbits, sheep, ducks, a pygmy goat, tortoise, and even guinea pigs. Towthorpe Grange, Towthorpe Moor Ln, Towthorpe, York YO32 9ST

6. Mother Shipton’s Cave, Knaresborough

Known as one of the UK’s oldest tourist attractions, Mother Shipton’s Cave has been mesmerising visitors with its magical well which waters turn everyday objects to stone.

You can also enjoy a woodland trail and enchanting tale that you’ll learn along the way in the Royal Forest of Knaresborough. The park’s natural beauty will have you mesmerised. Check out more info  here . Prophecy House, Harrogate Rd, High Bridge, Knaresborough HG5 8DD

7. Ninja Warrior, Bradford & Sheffield

If you’re a fan of the popular TV show, then you will love this new park opening in West Yorkshire. Test your skills on its range of Ninja Warrior inspired course that has something to test all abilities. There is a huge inflatable obstacle course as well as party rooms and a cafe to get refreshments. Find out more  here .

8. Studfold Fairy Adventure Trail, Yorkshire Dales – Things To Do With Kids Yorkshire

Found in the magical Yorkshire Dales, the fun-filled adventure is a great place to let your children’s imaginations run wild. It has some fantastic fairy houses and a beautiful trail through the woods where you can explore nature.

It has a fantastic new playground where the parents can sit and watch their children burn off some energy whilst having a chat. Find out more  here .

Studfold. Lofthouse, North Yorkshire ,HG3 5SG

9. Northwood Magical Fairy Trail, North Yorkshire

Love all things mythical, Want more fairy goodness? This place is designed to foster young children’s minds and let them run wild.

It has been an attraction for years and the 100-acre wood on the outskirts of York has plenty for you and your children to get stuck into this summer. Find out more  here .

Northwood Trail, Sunley Hill, Muscoates Lane, Nunnington, York, YO62 5XQ 

10. Diggerland, Castleford – Things To Do With Kids Yorkshire

One of Yorkshire’s newest attractions, found in West Yorkshire Diggerland is every machine-loving kid’s dream. They can have a go on real working diggers as well as go on exhilarating rides made from adapted diggers.

There are also go-karts and more to keep you entertained for hours this half term. If you’re looking for more excitement then this is for you! Find out more  here . Willowbridge Ln, Castleford WF10 5NW

Read More: 10 Weird & Wonderful Free Things To Do With Kids In Leeds

11. flamingo land, north yorkshire.

Yorkshire’s greatest theme park, full of fun for all ages, Flamingo Land is the perfect place to enjoy fantastic adrenaline fuelled rides, along with some fantastic games and fun activities.

You get a two-for-one with Flamingo Land they also have an amazing zoo which is full of lions, hippos, giraffes, and a whole host of creepy crawlies for you to discover (if you’re not too wet from the fantastic log flume that is).

12. Forbidden Corner, Yorkshire Dales – Things To Do With Kids Yorkshire

Full of follies, underground tunnels, and secret chambers, Forbidden Corner is built to fuel the imagination and wait for you and your kids to explore.

It’s definitely one of the best days out in Yorkshire, and we should know, it’s one of our personal favourites to visit. Many people can’t quite find the right words to describe this stunning venue, which is why you’ll just have to go and discover it for yourself. Find out more here . The Forbidden Corner, Middleham, Leyburn DL8 4TJ

13. Visit One Of Yorkshire’s Outdoor Swimming Pools and Lidos

We’ve already kicked off the summer with some of the hottest weather on record, so these outdoor swimming pools and lidos will be perfect for you to cool down.

The kids can run wild in a safe space enjoying splashing around in these beautiful outdoor pools and lidos in some of the most beautiful locations across Yorkshire. Find out more here .

14. Check Out One Of Yorkshire’s Family-Friendly Farms With Animals

Looking for things to do with kids in Yorkshire? The summer holidays are here and we all know how hard it is to keep the kids entertained. Farms are not just for growing crops all these fantastic places across Yorkshire have plenty to do for you and your kids including traditional petting farms to all-singing all-dancing adventure parks, here’s our guide to the best family-friend farms in Yorkshire to visit this summer. Find out more here .

15. Have Sometime Away In One of Yorkshire’s Weird & Wonderful Unique Stays

If you’re not going abroad this summer, or you are but fancy a cheeky getaway. These unique stays are perfect for things to do with kids in Yorkshire that involve sparking their imagination.

Whether you want to stay in the Gryffindor Common Room, lay your head in a Hobbit Hole, or fall asleep in a double-decker bus. These Yorkshire stays are definitely something you won’t have experienced before. Find out more here .

16. Temple Newsam, Leeds – Things To Do With Kids Yorkshire

Temple Newsam is a massive place to explore that is steeped in history as well as full of fun-filled activities. Take a trip around the outdoor trails or visit the on-site farm which houses sheep, cows, goats, pigs, and more.

After you’ve worked up an appetite, visit the farm shop for a taste of a few local delicacies. Temple Newsam Rd, Leeds LS15 0AE

17. National Science and Media Museum, Bradford

Found in Bradford, which was recently given city of culture for 2024, The National Science Museum has seven floors of galleries with permanent exhibitions focusing on photography,  television , animation, videogaming, the Internet, and more.

During the summer, kids can get used to not using their nogging, so why not get those neurons flowing with some inspirational activities that make a great family day out in Yorkshire possible?

The kids can explore interactive exhibitions, discover the origins of photography and play around with a whole host of activities that will keep them entertained all day. Did we mention it also has an IMAX cinema!? Pictureville, Bradford BD1 1NQ

18. York Maze, York

It’s only open for a few months of the year, but York Maze is a great day out with the kids. In the middle of the Yorkshire countryside, it boasts the biggest maze in Europe – the Giant Maize Maze. But that’s not all there is to do here.

There’s also a Jurassic Maze, a Mineshaft Maze, and a Finger Fortune Maze, not to mention loads of play zones, including a jumping pillow (that’s a bouncy castle without the walls) and a climbing zone. Find out more here .

Elvington Lane, York, YO19 5LT

19. Castle Museum, York

A former prison that once housed the famous highwayman, Dick Turpin, Castle Museum is one of the most amazing family days out in Yorkshire for you to experience.

It features a street that will take you back in time along with an immersive & nostalgic trip through time with their meticulously put-together exhibitions. Parents get ready to explain what a few things you grew up with are. We can’t believe Nintendo 64 is now considered vintage! Find out more here .

Tower St, York YO1 9RY

20. Dalby Forest, Pickering – Things To Do With Kids Yorkshire

Cycling, woodland walks, a fantastic park, and much much more, Dalby in North Yorkshire has great things to do with kids in Yorkshire’s best forest.

Whether you choose to take a picnic, venture on the Gruffalo Trail, or decide to get some food in the on-site cafe you can easily while away a whole day and more at Dalby. If you’re feeling brave, why not try out the Go Ape treetop course, or explore a segway tour? Dalby Forest Dr, Low Dalby, Pickering YO18 7LT

Read More: 15 Weird & Wonderful Free Things To Do With Kids In York

21. York Dungeons, York City Centre – Things To Do With Kids Yorkshire

Ready for a journey through 2,000 years of York’s darkest history? Then make sure you visit York Dungeon. You’ll be transported through the city’s murky past coming face to face with a Viking and learn all about Saxon enemies before meeting the famous Guy Fawkes and local with Isabella Billington.

The immersive sets and amazing special effects along with live actors is a fantastic event, but its not for the faint of heart. Head over to the website here to book, if you’re feeling brave enough. 12 Clifford St, York YO1 9RD

22. Yorkshire Wildlife Park , Doncaster

Home to over 300 animals and over 60 species, the Yorkshire Wildlife Park is Doncaster’s largest and number one visitor attraction. You can explore the park and visit the lions, tigers, polar bears, giraffes and everything in between.

The park supports the conservation and welfare of animals by helping rescue endangered animals and through breeding programmes. To get booked in, visit the website here . Hurst Ln, Doncaster DN9 3QY

23. Royal Armouries , Leeds

Who’s kid doesn’t love army stuff? The Royal Armies is a great day out for both adults and children. It holds the largest collections of military memorabilia in the world. It’s a real treat for those eager to learn and a great example of how free things to do in Leeds can be really amazing – where else are you shown such heritage and history for nothing?

Delve deep into the world of the military through the ages across five floors of galleries which include war, tournament, Oriental, self-defense, and hunting with over 8, 500 objects to see.What’s great is there are even re-enactments and jousting events for you to enjoy. Find out more here . Armouries Dr, Leeds LS10 1LT

24. Kelham Island Museum

Explore the making of Sheffield through the Kelham Island Museum. From master craftsmen to mass production, you’ll experience life and work during the Industrial Revolution. Follow the sights and sounds of progress through the Victorian era and celebrate the Women of Steel and how the modern Steel City was forged.

You’ll hear the roar and feel the rumble of the mighty River Don Engine, the 425 ton 12,000hp visitor-favourite in steam twice a day Thursday-Sunday, and find out more about the industry that saw Sheffield become world-renowned for making and innovation. Alma St, Sheffield S3 8SA

25. The Deep, Hull

The Deep is a fantastic day out – no matter how old you are. Found under the River Humber as it completes its journey to the North Sea, the wonderful aquarium is home to over 3,000 creatures – including sharks, stingray, jellyfish and even penguins.

Learn about the mesmerising creatures that call our oceans home, see fascinating mammals co-habit with one another, or, if you’re anything like us, just watch the penguins play for hours on end.  Book here .

26. Eureka! – Things To Do With Kids Yorkshire

Yorkshire has some of the most exciting and creative places where you can take your kids to entertain them. And, much like putting their veggies in a nice tomato sauce, the interactive museums get children to learn without them even knowing it’s good for them! Win, win.

27. Snozone, Castleford

Xscape in Castleford is home to Snozone and has an amazing ski slope where you can learn to ski and snowboard. It’s England’s largest indoor real snow resort. Your kids can get in-house lessons or just hit the slopes and enjoy fun times. Find out more  her e.

28. Lightwater Valley , North Yorkshire – Things To Do With Kids Yorkshire

 Lightwater Valley Family Adventure Park is perfect for a full day of fresh air and entertainment for children aged 12 and under!With over 40 rides and attractions including, the UK’s largest Tree Top Adventure Nets, PLUS a jam-packed programme of daily entertainment, you’ll find mega adventures around every corner!

29. Stockeld Park, North Yorkshire

While Stockeld Park is a particularly brilliant spot to visit at  Christmas  time, the 2000 acre park has activities on all year round. The country house is located in Wetherby and features a maze, Enchanted Forest, a laser adventure and even mini boats you can ride in on the lake. The park is more of a family-friendly place, with most activities aimed at the kids.

30. Yorkshire Lavender, North Yorkshire

The heady scent and the heavenly colour palette of lavender flowers is a dream-like creation that hints at spring’s return. Set within the  Howardian Hills , Yorkshire Lavender fields in Yorkshire are a curated space of heady scents and distinct sights that will have you enamoured the moment you get there.

The triple award-winning attraction is a truly wonderful experience. Leave your expectations at the gate and surround yourself with the varied colours of lavender flowers.

31. Tropical World, Leeds – Things To Do With Kids Yorkshire

Full of all sorts of creatures and critters, the indoor jungle/ Leeds zoo Tropical World in Leeds, Roundhay is the perfect place to while away the hours on a rainy day.

Check out a range of fishes from the depths of the sea, menacing meerkats who look like they’re always up to no good, to beautiful butterflies that flutter around their enclosure – it’s a fun day out for all the family. And, did we mention there is a gift shop at the end?  Tropical World, Princes Ave, Roundhay, Leeds LS8 2ER Find out more  here .

Read More: The Ultimate Guide To Yorkshire’s Most Beautiful Seaside Spots

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Kids Days Out In Yorkshire

Kids Days Out In Bedale

Kids days out in barnsley, kids days out in harrogate, kids days out in hull, kids days out in leeds, kids days out in scarborough, kids days out in sheffield, kids days out in skipton, kids days out in whitby, kids days out in york.

WOW - Take a look at this!

The Plotters' Forest at Raby Castle

Come and explore with us!

County Durham Come and explore our immersive adventure playground at Raby Castle, families can enjoy being surrounded by nature as they climb, slide and jump to their heart's content. Nestled within our natural Christmas tree plantation  

• Wheelchair friendly: Partly - see website
• Offers: Discounts to Raby Members and Kids under 4
• Kids Days Out visits: 953

Step back in time!

Abbey House Museum, Leeds

Visit our fantastic family-friendly and interactive museum to step back in time to Victorian Leeds at Abbey House Museum.

West Yorkshire Abbey House Museum is a fun, family-friendly museum exploring social history and childhood in the Victorian era in Leeds.  

• Free Attraction: No
• Wheelchair friendly: Yes
• Offers: Leeds Card Discount
• Kids Days Out visits: 4034

500 Years of History

Temple Newsam Leeds

Lots of great things to do with the family here

West Yorkshire Lots of great things to do with the family at Temple Newsam which is home to one of the finest historic houses in Yorkshire. Visitors can explore the grounds and visit Home Farm to see animals.  

• Offers: Discount with Leeds Card
• Kids Days Out visits: 3527

Wenseleydale Railway, Northallerton

Railway days out for the family in Yorkshire!

Our trains are normally formed of heritage diesel railcars from the 1960s, which have large windows and a great view of the line ahead!

• Free Attraction: Partly - See Website
• Kids Days Out visits: 8927

Go Ape with the family!

Go Ape Dalby Forest

Yorkshire This thrilling high rope experience is set in Dalby Forest. Explore it through the trees, or by trail on a Segway adventure.  

• Offers: 15% Discount on Family Treetop Challenge Sun - Fri using code FAMILY15
• Kids Days Out visits: 801

Outdoor and Indoor Farm Fun! Take a look.

Swithens Farm Leeds

Outdoor and Indoor Farm Fun!

West Yorkshire Families love our Farm Park, with animals, indoor play, tractor rides, cafe and shop! Feed the animals and find Bilbo!  

• Kids Days Out visits: 415

Mega Adventures - Book now

Lightwater Valley, Ripon

Lots of things to do here for kids.

Yorkshire With over 40 rides and attractions, you'll find a mega adventure around every corner at Lightwater Valley Family Adventure Park Another of our Kids Days Out and things to do in Ripon.  

• Offers: Use code KIDSDAYSOUT to get £2 off a standard 4 years+ day ticket
• Kids Days Out visits: 14398

A great place to see Art!

Leeds Art Gallery

Great events for kids throughout the year

West Yorkshire A great programme of events for families and adults to take part in, Leeds Art Gallery holds plenty of free activities throughout the year.  

• Free Attraction: Yes
• Kids Days Out visits: 3896

Indoors and outdoors!

Boston Park Farm, Doncaster

Animal lovers will enjoy this family friendly farm

South Yorkshire At Boston Park the friendly animals love visitors whatever the weather! Play areas, maize maze and much more at this fun farm!  

• Kids Days Out visits: 12012

Fun for Kids up to 10!

Grass Hoppers Tingley

Things to do with kids this week or weekend near Leeds

West Yorkshire Here at Grass Hoppers you will find fantastic soft indoor play areas and huge outdoor adventure play areas where children up to the age of 10 years old can enjoy proper playtim  

• Kids Days Out visits: 831

National Railway Museum, York

Great Day out for families! & FREE

For a fantastic free day out with railway legends, daily demonstrations and interactive exhibits visit the National Railway Museum in York.

• Offers: Free
• Kids Days Out visits: 17155

England's Oldest Attraction

Mother Shipton's Cave and Petrifying Well, Knaresborough

Englands Oldest Visitor attraction and still a great place for a family visit

North Yorkshire Visitors from all over the world have been enchanted by the park’s natural beauty, mesmerised by the Petrifying Well and fascinated by Mother Shipton’s story.  

• Wheelchair friendly: No
• Kids Days Out visits: 4383

Holiday activities for the kids!

Kirkstall Abbey Leeds

Find out how the monks of Kirkstall Abbey lived and uncover the history of our magnificent abbey

West Yorkshire Kirkstall Abbey in Leeds is one of the best preserved Cistercian monasteries in the country, founded over 800 years ago. A free attraction.  

• Kids Days Out visits: 3904

KIDS GO FREE!

Himalayan Garden & Sculpture Park, Ripon

Family Adventures

North Yorkshire Rich in wildlife, winding woodland paths, cooling water ways & quirky sculptures....a tearoom & horsebox full of tasty treats with a woodland playground for kids.Just one of our things to do with kids in Ripon.  

• Offers: Kids Go Free
• Kids Days Out visits: 1313

A great family day out!

North Bay Railway, Scarborough

Yorkshire A warm welcome tothe Scarborough North Bay Railway. We have been delighting visitors young and old alike for over 90 years - there is so much on offer for the whole family at Britain's Biggest Miniature Railway!  

• Kids Days Out visits: 628

Free entry Museum

Leeds City Museum

Same City. Another World.

West Yorkshire Great for families - Leeds City Museum is a fantastic free museum in the heart of Leeds. Visitors can discover our four floors of interactive and exciting galleries, from Ancient Egypt to modern day Leeds.  

• Kids Days Out visits: 6533

Award winning family fun!

Thornton Hall Country Park, near Skipton

Family run, spotlessly clean, Award Winning Country Farm Park

North Yorkshire Thornton Hall Country Park is an award-winning all weather, working farm and leisure attraction. Open year-round, the park offers farm activities and entertainment for all ages  

• Offers: See website
• Kids Days Out visits: 21761

More than you can imagine!

National Media Museum, Bradford

Filled with fun exhibitions, 3 cinemas inc. IMAX (charges apply) and galleries!

The National Media Museum is a FREE fun day out for the whole family devoted to film, photos, TV, radio & the web. Restaurant, Cafe.

• Offers: FREE
• Kids Days Out visits: 10406

NEW! Digital Adventures Castleford

Immersive Gamebox - Castleford

Wow this looks brilliant!

• Kids Days Out visits: 1097

Kids love crafts!

Rainbows Ceramics, York,

Creative Pottery Painting fun for the kids!

Yorkshire Many items to choose from in our York City Centre Pottery Painting Studio, North Yorkshire. No booking required. Parties also available.  

• Offers: Party discounts available for 6+ painters.
• Kids Days Out visits: 9184

Be prepared to be scared!

The York Dungeon

Walkthrough 10 live actor shows, telling the story of 2000 years of York's dark history

Yorkshire Walkthrough 10 live actor shows, telling the story of 2000 years of York's dark history.  

• Kids Days Out visits: 1870

A wonderful day out!

SEA LIFE Scarborough

More than 2500 creatures - Dive into an amazing underwater world

Yorkshire More than 2500 creatures - Dive into an amazing underwater world and take a fascinating journey to the ocean depths as you discover amazing creatures.  

• Kids Days Out visits: 1935

As seen on TV!

Cannon Hall Farm, Barnsley

Another idea for kids days out!

One of the best Farm attractions in the country and winner of many awards. Animals in abundance and always something new!

• Kids Days Out visits: 21053

Something for all ages!

Newby Hall and Gardens, Ripon

Enjoy our fantastic Children’s Adventure Garden!

With sand pit and swings for toddlers, exciting pirates’ fort, aerial ropeway and pedalo boats for older children and much more!

• Kids Days Out visits: 13561

26 Climbing Walls!

Rock Up, Hull

Climbing & adventure for the whole family

Rock Up is a thrilling indoor climbing centre. With 26 climbing walls and a soft play area, Rock Up provides a great adventure for all ages

• Offers: See website for offers
• Kids Days Out visits: 10346

Loads going on here!

Piglets Adventure Farm in York

Fantastic Family Day Out near York!

Yorkshire Get ready for a full day of fun for the whole family with hands-on animal activities, Indoor Play & Outdoor Adventure for all ages.  

• Kids Days Out visits: 17551

WOW - this has everything!

Mission Out, Tingley

West Yorkshire Mission Out is an active family day out where children and adults can experience epic challenges in the great outdoors!  

• Kids Days Out visits: 798

See herds of red and fallow deer!

The Deer Park, Raby Castle

Enjoy the picturesque parklands at Raby Castle!

Durham Enjoy the picturesque parklands at Raby Castle! With 200 acres to explore and a range of wildlife on our doorstep, there is plenty to see and do across Raby Park. Discover our walking routes and meet our herds of red and fallow deer.  

• Offers: Raby Members and under 4s go Free
• Kids Days Out visits: 1040

Learn to ski or snowboard!

Snozone, Castleford

Sledge, ski & snowboard on real snow - summer or winter! Snozone

West Yorkshire Sledge, ski & snowboard on real snow! Snozone in Castleford is an outstanding venue packed full of fun things to do with kids all year round Sledge, ski & snowboard on real snow! Snozone is an outstanding venue packed full of fun things to do with kids all year round Normal 0 false false false EN-GB X-NONE X-NONE  

• Kids Days Out visits: 3410

Great Tree Adventure!

Raven Tree Top Adventure, Skipton

Come find your adventure in the trees

North Yorkshire High ropes course set in Skipton, zip wires, balance beams, swinging logs and more. Reach over 6 metres above ground. Take a look.  

• Kids Days Out visits: 6721

Book Mobile Tickets

York's Chocolate Story

Cocololate Paradise for the whole family

Yorkshire If you love chocolate this is for you. Plenty to do and eat and see!  

• Kids Days Out visits: 21233

Castle Howard, York

Explore 1,000 acres of grounds!

Take the land-train to boat trips and our new adventure playground; discover our house & park near York, North Yorkshire

• Kids Days Out visits: 16886

Love animals then go today!

Tropical Butterfly House, Wildlife & Falconry Centre, nr Sheffield

Why not place this in your days out diary.

South Yorkshire Meet lemurs, meerkats, owls, otters, snakes and other amazing animals and have fun in the play park and activity centre!  

• Kids Days Out visits: 23241

Take a look at this!

Thwaite Watermill, Leeds

Visit Thwaite Watermills and wander through our magical woodland trails

West Yorksire Discover the charm of Thwaite Watermill, set on an island of its very own, hidden away in the south of Leeds.  

• Offers: Children under 5 free. Discount Leeds card
• Kids Days Out visits: 3631

This looks like fun!

Grass Hoppers at Tong Garden Centre

Enjoy Proper Indoor and Outdoor Fun with kids

West Yorkshire Enjoy fantastic indoor and outdoor fun at Grass Hoppers play area. Have a bounce on the jumping pillows, zoom down the zip wire and much more!  

• Kids Days Out visits: 4275

Thorp Perrow Arboretum Bedale

North Yorkshire Come and take a stroll in the Arboretum, watch your children let off steam in the adventure playground, enjoy the wonderful Bird of Prey displays, or hand feed the wallabies in the Mammal Centre.  

• Kids Days Out visits: 371

No1 Walkthrough Wildlife Adventure!

Yorkshire Wildlife Park

South Yorkshire Yorkshire Wildlife Park is home to over 200 rare and endangered animals, including lions, tigers, black rhinos and the largest collection of polar bears in the world!  

• Offers: Special online booking offers
• Kids Days Out visits: 3777

A Zoo in Leeds!

Lotherton, Leeds

A beautiful country estate and zoo in Leeds

West Yorkshire Visit Lotherton and discover the beautiful Edwardian hall and grounds. Journey through the continents at Wildlife World at Lotherton and discover animals native to the countries the Gascoigne family visited.  

• Offers: Leeds Card Discount, YGHCG, Annual Membership
• Kids Days Out visits: 3782

History in the making!

Leeds Industrial Museum

West Yorkshire Discover the heritage of Yorkshire through home-grown industries in Leeds Industrial Museum at Armley Mills.  

• Kids Days Out visits: 3616

Medicine changed the world!

Thackray Museum of Medicine, Leeds

Yorkshire Immerse yourself in our imaginative and exciting galleries and activities, from the history of healthcare to the advances that have shaped the way we look after ourselves, and each other.  

• Offers: See website - under 5's free
• Kids Days Out visits: 11683

Great Family Shows all year!

Family Shows York Opera House

Don't miss out - Book now

North Yorkshire Lots of great family shows here like 'Shrek' the Musical' and many more. Book early to ensure your place!  

• Kids Days Out visits: 556

National Trust family days out!

National Trust Places England and Wales

National Trust Places

Find National Trust near me - Gardens, Beaches, Houses, Castles, Countryside and Coastal Walks with children and family on your Kids Days Out  

• Offers: Members Free Entry
• Kids Days Out visits: 631

Your adventure begins!

Stockeld Park - Wetherby

Where magic is made and adventures begin!

North Yorkshire Stockeld Park is a unique all weather family attraction located near Wetherby in Yorkshire.  

• Kids Days Out visits: 15327

A Magical Adventure

Studfold Adventure Trail

A great day out with a difference for your kids!

Want to get out with the kids for fresh air and fun? Situated in the magical Yorkshire Dales, the Trail is a play and discover experience for toddlers and children of all primary school ages, girls and boys, to explore nature, find fairies and run wild.

• Kids Days Out visits: 10103

Check this out!

Yorkshire Air Museum, York

The largest independent air museum in Britain with plenty of things to do for kids!

Over 50 historic aircraft including Tornado GR4, Spitfire & the rarely-seen Nimrod MR2. Large range of military vehicles. 

• Offers: Children under 5 free
• Kids Days Out visits: 14871

A must visit - why?

Eureka! The National Children's Museum, Halifax

Where children play to learn and grown-ups learn to play...

Yorkshire Step inside giant parts of the human body, rob the bank and drive off in a great big lorry, all in a day’s play!  

• Offers: Pay once and play for the whole year with our annual pass!
• Kids Days Out visits: 12475

Great train journeys

West Coast Railways, "The Scarborough Spa Express", Scarborough, Leeds, Harrogate and York

Scarborough Spa Steam Train

Lancashire The Scarborough Spa Express. Travel coast to coast by steam, to York or Scarborough.  

• Kids Days Out visits: 25055

SEE MORE ABOUT THIS!

Kids Pass - Nationwide

Join KIDS PASS for discounts on many attractions not listed by us!  

• Offers: SEE OFFERS!
• Kids Days Out visits: 68

What a great idea!

Little Skipwith Carriage Rides, near York

North Yorkshire Join us with your family for a beautiful horse drawn carriage ride around beautiful grounds of Escrick Park Estate  

• Kids Days Out visits: 1077

1.2 million! What?

Leeds Discovery Centre

West Yorkshire Leeds Discovery Centre is Leeds Museums & Galleries state-of-the-art storage facility, where we care for 1.2 million objects.  

• Kids Days Out visits: 3874

Reach New Heights!

Rock Up, Meadowhall Sheffield

South Yorkshire Rock Up is a thrilling indoor climbing centre with a vast soft play area and onsite cafe offering delicious food and drinks. Another of our things to do in Sheffield  

• Offers: £1 off if you book online, in advance
• Kids Days Out visits: 1198

Family activites during School Holidays

Beningbrough Hall

Lots of great things to do on your Kids day Out to Beningbrough Hall, National Trust

Yorkshire Visit Beninbrough Hall (National Trust) for a great Kids Day Out with lots of activities during the school holidays for the family - take a look at what is on  

• Kids Days Out visits: 4987

THE 10 BEST Yorkshire Things to Do with Kids

Things to do in yorkshire with kids.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Leeds City Centre
• Quarry Hill
• Clarence Dock
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Honeymoon spot
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. National Railway Museum

2. Stockeld Park

3. York Castle Museum

4. Shambles

5. York's Chocolate Story

6. National Coal Mining Museum

7. York City Walls

8. Yorkshire Wildlife Park

9. Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden

10. York Maze

11. Jorvik Viking Centre

12. Royal Armouries Museum

13. Peasholm Park

14. Eden Camp Modern History Museum

15. The Forbidden Corner

16. Whitby Abbey

17. Yorkshire Air Museum

18. York Bird of Prey Centre

19. Brimham Rocks

20. The Deep

21. Snozone

22. RSPB Bempton Cliffs

23. Aysgarth Falls

24. Ingleton Waterfalls Trail

25. Streetlife Museum of Transport

26. Yorkshire Sculpture Park

27. RHS Garden Harlow Carr

28. Malham Cove

29. Tropical Butterfly House Wildlife Conservation Park

30. Roundhay Park

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100 Things to do with kids in Yorkshire

Updated 26/05/2021

There are fantastic things to do with kids in Yorkshire (after all, it is England’s largest county!) and this post will give you 100 ideas for a fun, family day out in Yorkshire.

The historical county is divided into four administrative regions – North Yorkshire (including the Yorkshire Dales , Yorkshire Moors and Yorkshire Coast ), West Yorkshire, South Yorkshire and East Riding of Yorkshire. 

The major cities in the county are York, Leeds, Sheffield and Hull.

There are so many things to do in Yorkshire with kids that you could spend all your holiday in just one of these locations and still not see everything there is to see.

* Many Yorkshire attractions currently have Covid restrictions in place. Please check relevant websites in advance of your visit. 

Table of Contents

The City of York 

York is a small, family friendly city packed with historical and fun attractions for all ages. Plus, there are several city centre parks for a good runaround.

It is a compact city with a pedestrianised city centre. Most of the major attractions can easily be visited on foot but there are also excellent bus and rail links. York railway station is just a ten minute walk from the city centre making York an ideal destination to visit by train.

Best things to do in York with kids

A visit to York should start with a visit to York Minster , the largest Gothic cathedral in northern Europe and home to the largest expanse of stained glass anywhere in the world.

York Minster runs family friendly tours and kids can borrow free to use activity backpacks. Plus, the Minster runs drop in craft activities during the school holidays.

At York Chocolate Story families can explore the long history of chocolate making in York.  An engaging guided tour  culminates with the chance to make your own chocolate lollipop.

Jorvik Viking Centre is one of York’s most popular tourist attractions. 

Learn how Vikings lived and died in York and see the remains of Viking streets and homes beneath the glass floor of the museum. 

Take a historical ‘cab’ ride through a life size Viking settlement which evokes the sights, sounds and smells of the Viking era. Our kids still talk about the toilet section!

Visit one of York’s historical houses such as the Treasurers House, the Georgian Fairfax House or The Mansion House, home of the Mayor of York.

Join a craft activity at York Art Gallery or hunt for fossils at DIG , a museum aimed at younger families. Families with older children can visit the terrifying York Dungeons.

Explore York through the ages at the excellent York Castle Museum and see the spooky Victorian cells where Dick Turpin was held. Or discover York’s Roman and Jurassic history at the Yorkshire Museum.

For a fabulous 360 degree view of York, climb to the ramparts of Clifford’s Tower, the remains of a Norman era keep set in a car park right in the city centre!

You can read my detailed post about visiting York with kids here and our guide to the best places to stay in York here.

Free things to do in York with kids

The huge National Railway Museum is one of the best museums in York and is packed with engines and carriages of every shape and colour.

There are free, daily science shows, a small playground and miniature railway on site. Kids will love the outdoor balcony where they can wave at passing trains. 

York city walls are the longest city walls in England and are accessed by four impressive medieval ‘bars’ or gateways. Kids will enjoy the the portcullis, archer slits and murder holes in Monk Bar.

The atmospheric shopping street The Shambles has been voted ‘Britain’s Best Street’.

This medieval era cobbled street is packed with lopsided, overhanging buildings and is said to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter movies. 

Stroll along the River Ouse or run off energy in the playground at Rowntree’s Park. Have a good runaround in Dean’s Park behind York Minster or a picnic in pretty Museum Gardens.

Free to explore within Museum Gardens are the ruins of St Mary’s Abbey, the 15th century Hospitium, a 19th century observatory and the third century Roman era multi-angular tower.

The Yorkshire Dales

The Dales (which includes the Yorkshire Dales National Park) is a rolling green landscape packed with waterfalls, caves, historic sites and amazing views.

The area gets its name from the river valleys found here, with each ‘dale’ named after the river that flows through it.

Things to do in the Yorkshire Dales

The Forbidden Corner is one of the most unusual things to do in Yorkshire with kids.

Visitors receive a map with the attractions of this 4 acre site but the map does not tell you how to find them. What you see depends on how hard you are willing to search for it!

Be prepared to dodge water spouting statues, seek out hidden underground chambers, explore dark tunnels and narrow staircases and crawl on your hands and knees through gaps.

There are surprises in store around every corner including in the car park and toilets. The Forbidden Corner is unmissable.

Families with younger children will enjoy searching for fairy doors and hidden fairy houses at Studfold Adventure Park. 

Learn about the history of the Dales and try traditional crafts at the charming Dales Countryside Museum, housed in Victorian rail station at Hawes. 

Don’t miss the nearby Wensleydale Creamery , home to Wallace’s favourite cheese (from the Wallace and Gromit movies).

Thorp Perrow Arboretum near Bedale is a 100 acre park with a fantastic adventure playground.

The arboretum contains 5 National Plant Collections and 51 Champion Trees (trees of rare size or nature). 

There is also a Bird of Prey and Mammal Centre onsite with daily falconry displays.

Adventurous families should visit   How Stean Gorge in Nidderdale. 

The short gorge offers guided, child friendly gorge walking, caving and Via Ferrata activities.

Read our detailed guide on things to do with kids in the Yorkshire Dales here. 

Family hikes in the Yorkshire Dales

The Yorkshire Dales are best explored on foot and there are accessible hikes for all ages and abilities.

One unmissable location is Malham Cove, a 230 foot high natural stone amphitheater. There was once a waterfall plunging over the top of Malham Cove that was higher than Niagara Falls!

Families may recognise the pitted limestone pavement at the top of Malham Cove as it featured in the Harry Potter movies.

There are several walks to choose from in Malham ranging from an easy 1 hour return walk to the base of the Cove or a 3 hour return hike to Gordale Scar gorge, passing Janet’s Foss waterfall on route.

Alternatively, tackle the 13 kilometre circular trail that covers all the major sites in this area.

An easy walk for little legs is Nidd Gorge, on the outskirts of Knaresborough.

This sheltered woodland trail runs alongside the River Nidd and includes secluded bays and stretches of sand.

Or visit the locals favourite Brimham Rocks near Pateley Bridge.

This National Trust property is an elevated plateau packed with tall, unusually shaped rocky towers created by a fast flowing river 100 million years ago.

The rock formations are riddled with alcoves and tiny caves for exploring and the elevation of Brimham Rocks provide fantastic views over the Yorkshire Dales.  Climbing the abrasive rocks is NOT advised.

TIP – If you plan to do several walks, it is worth investing in a detailed Yorkshire Dales OS map. We bring our map even on familiar walks; you never know when you might need it.

For route ideas, check out the excellent Ordnance Survey book Circular Walks in the Yorkshire Dales.  

Or for pushchair friendly walks, see the OS book   Short Walks For All The Family . Both of these detailed books will help you plan your walks in advance. 

Caves in the Yorkshire Dales

The limestone landscape of the Yorkshire Dales is riddled with caves.

Families can tour a show cave or join an adventurous organised trip into a cave. 

Show caves are not pushchair or baby carrier friendly and it is important to wear good gripping footwear. Pack a jumper as Yorkshire caves are a cool 8 degrees all year round.  

White Scar Cave near Ingleton is the longest show cave in England. Don a hard hat and descend 97 steps to enjoy the thrill of an underground waterfall and curiously named formations such as The Witches Fingers.

Stump Cross Caverns near Pateley Bridge is estimated to be 500,000 years old.

Visitors descend 65 steps into the cave to see unusually colourful stalactites and stalagmites.  

Reindeer and wolverine fossils have been found here and there is a fun fossil trail to complete. 

Yorkshire Dales waterfalls

If you like waterfalls, you are spoilt for choice in the Yorkshire Dales.

Visit iconic Aysgarth Falls which consists of three separate waterfalls plunging over limestone steps over a one mile stretch of the River Ure. 

Take a trip to see Hardraw Force, my favourite Yorkshire waterfalls. At 100 feet high, Hardraw Force is the highest single drop waterfall in England. 

Or tackle the Ingleton Waterfall Trail, a family friendly 4 ½ mile circular hike that visits six waterfalls on route.

Historic sites in the Yorkshire Dales

Kids and historic sites may not always go together but there are several fantastic options for ‘historic’ days out with kids in Yorkshire, with the Dales offering some of the best locations.

One of the best sites to visit is Bolton Abbey, part of a private estate owned by the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire. Families pay £10 for parking and can stay all day making it a great value for money day out. 

Explore the atmospheric ruins of the Priory Church and Augustinian Abbey and walk the pretty woodland trails in Strid Wood. Enjoy a paddle in the river or spread out on the huge site for a picnic or ball game. 

Kids will love hopping across the river on Bolton Abbey’s famous stepping stones (60 of them!) and most adults find them hard to resist too.

Don’t miss a trip to nearby Billy Bob’s Ice Cream Parlour, a themed 50’s diner with amazing ice cream and an outdoor play barn.

Bolton Castle is the best preserved medieval castle in England and is owned by the same family who built the castle 600 years ago.

Families can tour furnished castle rooms and watch the daily archery display in the castle courtyard. 

The landscaped grounds of Bolton Castle contain a maze, herb garden, a bowling green, vineyard and rose garden. There is a daily Bird of Prey and Falconry display and families can pre-book their own Falconry experience or ‘hawk walk.’

Alternatively, visit intact but unfurnished Skipton Castle, Jervaulx Abbey or Middleham Castle.

North Yorkshire

Whilst the Yorkshire Dales, Moors and Coast fall under North Yorkshire, there are other attractions in the region that do not lie in these three popular destinations.

Things to do with kids in North Yorkshire

Fans of ‘All Creatures Great and Small’  will love the James Herriot Museum near Thirsk, where the ‘Yorkshire Vet’ is also filmed.

The museum was Herriot’s home and veterinary practice in the 1940’s and introduces children to all things farming.

There is a fantastic hands-on interactive gallery and kids will love the chance to put their hand up a cow’s bottom! Not a real one thankfully but my son still talks ‘about that time’ he put his hand in a cow.

Harrogate is an attractive 19th century spa town. Visit the Royal Pump Museum to discover Harrogate’s spa history and join one of the three daily tours to see the potent sulfur wells, the strongest in Europe. 

Grab a Fat Rascal bun from Betty’s Tea Rooms to enjoy in Valley Gardens, a colourful park with an excellent playground and paddling pool.

Wander the castle ruins at Knaresborough, visit the petrified objects at Mother Shipton’s Cave or hire a boat on the river.

Our kids enjoy Harlow Carr, a Royal Horticultural Society gardens on the outskirts of Harrogate. There are child friendly trails, craft activities and a fantastic woodland tree house. As a keen but untalented gardener, I like the Teaching Garden best! 

Flamingoland is one of the best days out in Yorkshire for families. You can easily spend a whole day here. 

The theme park rides for all ages and tastes (!) and also has an on site zoo with daily keeper talks, animal meet and greets and pre-bookable Zoo Keeper Experiences. 

For an authentic and sometimes moving step back in time, visit Eden Camp,  museum charting life in World War 2 both at home and on the frontline. This site was used during WW2 as a prisoner of war camp and the museum is housed in the original buildings from this time.

Historic sites in North Yorkshire

Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden near Richmond is a perfect destination for a multi generational trip.

The 12th century Benedictine ruins are the largest monastic ruins in England. Visitors can explore the ruins or t ry traditional country crafts at The Grange. The adventure playground here is one of the best in Yorkshire. 

A riverside walk links Fountains Abbey to Studley Royal Water Garden, a World Heritage Site. Wander ornamental lakes, moon ponds, summer houses, statues and challenge the kids to find several quirky follies.

Ripley Castle near Harrogate is one of the most family friendly castles in England . 

Unlike many country estates, Ripley Castle offers 45 minutes tours specifically aimed at children. 

Families can pre-book additional activities such as archery, kayaking or a high ropes course or just explore the landscaped grounds and woodland playground. 

TIP – don’t miss the Ripley Ice Cream shop opposite the entrance to Ripley Castle. It is THE best ice cream in Yorkshire and people (like us) drive to Ripley just for the ice cream! 

Historic houses you should not miss in North Yorkshire

Historic houses have changed A LOT since I was a child being dragged around them by my parents.

Gone are stuffy guided tours and in are activity trails for children, dressing up costumes, treasure hunts and fantastic adventure playgrounds.

Newby Hall near Ripon is one of the best days out with kids in Yorkshire. The estate is well known with Yorkshire locals for its enormous adventure playground which has its own lake.

Kids will spend hours on the climbing frames, free to use pedalo boats, boat swings, aerial slide and sand pit.

There is also a popular ‘dancing’ water fountain which is impossible to resist on a sunny day. I recommend packing a change of clothes or a swimming costume for kids. Visitors to Newby Hall can explore the house, grounds and take a ride on a miniature railway.

Castle Howard featured in the TV series ‘Brideshead Revisited’ and ‘Bridgerton.’ 

Tour the fully furnished rooms of the house or enjoy  pushchair friendly lakeside paths, woodland trails, temples, monuments and a walled garden.

Skelf Island is Castle Howard’s exciting tree top playground consisting of rope bridges, nets and slides.  Adults are allowed to join in the fun here.

Beningbrough Hall, on the outskirts of York, is a Georgian era stately home with house tours, woodland trails, adventure playground and a lovely walled garden. Plus, there are regular ‘Artrageous’ family workshops during school holidays.

The Yorkshire Moors

The Moors are a scenic, windswept area stretching from Pickering to the Yorkshire Coast.

Hikers flock to this region for its hiking trails. My favourite walk in the Yorkshire Moors is in and around the Hole of Horcum, a natural amphitheatre 1/2 a mile wide and 400 foot deep.

If you plan on hiking in the Moors, I would recommend getting an OS map of the Yorkshire Moors . Trail signposts here can be few and far between.

Visit attractive market towns such as Helmsley and Pickering or picture perfect villages such as Goathland and Levisham.

Best things to do with kids in the Yorkshire Moors

A ride on a steam train on the North Yorks Moors Railway is without doubt one of the best things to do in Yorkshire with kids.

The train crosses the Moors between Pickering and Grosmont and passengers can purchase tickets that allow you to ‘hop on hop off’ the train along the route.

Stop at Levisham to see the Hole of Horcum or Goathland to visit locations featured in the hit tv series’ Heartbeat.’ 

Kids will recognise Goathland Station as Hogsmeade Station from the Harry Potter movies. 

The Dalby Forest on the eastern edge of the North York Moors is a giant playground. 

There are 13 hiking trails (including pushchair friendly walks), 6 cycling trails, a high ropes Go Ape course and 2 adventure playgrounds. 

The highly rated Ryedale Folk Museum in the heart of the Moors is an outdoor museum with buildings you can explore belonging to different eras such as an Elizabethan Manor house and an Iron Age roundhouse.  Kids will enjoy feeding the museums sheep and pigs.

The North Yorkshire Coast

Robins Hoods Bay is one of my favourite places to visit in Yorkshire, whatever the weather.    

Wander the maze of car free cobbled lanes and alleyways lined with old, tightly packed together cottages. 

This stretch of Yorkshire coastline is known as Yorkshire’s Jurassic Coast and visitors can search for fossils on the sandy beach. 

Whitby is a historic harbour town with a sandy beach.  Wander the Whitby’s cobbled streets, visit the Captain James Cook museum and  climb the 199 stone steps to the ruins of Whitby Abbey. R ounded off your day with a famous Whitby fish and chip dinner. 

Scarborough is a busy seaside resort with a sandy beach lined by arcades and a quieter pebbly beach. Visit the Sea Life Centre, take a ridee on the North Bay Heritage Railway or explore the ruins of Scarborough Castle.

Alternatively, hire bikes and cycle the scenic car free Cinder Trail.

Alpamare Water Park is one of the best things do in Yorkshire when it is raining.

The park has four exhilarating water slides, an infinity pool, heated outdoor pool, wave pool and splash zone for non swimmers. There is also an onsite spa. 

Half a million seabirds nest at Bempton Cliffs (including Puffins).

There are six viewing platforms, self guided trails and hikes. Children can borrow ‘Discovery Backpacks’ containing binoculars, a bird book and bug pot. 

The North Yorkshire Coastal Path is part of the 109 mile long Cleveland Way National Trail.  

The coastal path is fantastic with sweeping views of the dramatic Yorkshire coastline, secluded sandy coves and rocky bays. 

One of my absolute favourite things to do in Yorkshire is to hike the 7 miles Whitby to Robin Hoods Bay, which passes Whitby’s squat white lighthouse on route. Tired legs can catch a bus back from Robin Hoods Bay to Whitby. 

The path is well marked and not technically challenging but it is elevated and unfenced so it is more suitable with older children.

Read our detailed guide to the Yorkshire Coast here.  

North Yorkshire beaches

There is a beach to suit everyone in Yorkshire! 

My top recommendation would be stunning Runswick Bay, which is not only one of the best beaches in Yorkshire but was also voted the Best Beach In Britain 2020. The beach is sandy, clean and in a scenic spot. Sandsend and Filey are other top sandy beaches for families. 

For funfairs, souvenir shops and arcades head to Scarborough and Bridlington. 

If you prefer a quiet beach visit Hunmanby Gap and Reighton Sands whilst s urfers should head to windy Cayton Bay.

For old world charm visit Robin Hoods Bay and Staithes whereas a nimal lovers should visit the seal colony at Ravenscar and England’s largest nesting colony of seabirds at Flamborough Head. 

Things to do with kids in South Yorkshire

The Yorkshire Wildlife Park is one of the most popular Yorkshire attractions.

The Yorkshire Wildlife Park is home to over 400 animals from 70 different species. Wear comfy walking shoes for covering the 150 acre site! There are animals from Africa, Asia and Polar regions and most of the animals in the park are considered endangered.

There are indoor and outdoor play areas and pre bookable meet the animals experiences.

Gulliver’s Valley near Rotherham is a fun theme park aimed at younger children.

There are several options for a rainy day in South Yorkshire.

Magna Science Adventure Centre is an unusual attraction set in an enormous disused steelworks. There are over 100 hands on exhibits in four themed areas ( the water section is lots of fun) and a spectacular ‘Big Melt’ show.

Our son was not keen on the dark and loud noises in the show so we spent a lot of time outside in the Aqua Tek water playground outside. As the Magna website states, be prepared to get wet!

Alternatively, if you are looking for things to do in Yorkshire when it’s raining, head to The Dome or Calypso Waterpark.

The Dome near Doncaster has 7 swimming pools and the only split level ice rink in the U.K.   Calypso Cove in Barnsley offers fun waterslides and a pirate themed water play zone.

Things to do with kids in Sheffield

Check out the National Video Games Museum (my son’s idea of paradise) to discover how and why games are made plus have a go at making your own game.

Younger children will enjoy the hands on National Emergency Services Museum.

Things to do with kids in West Yorkshire

There is something for everyone in West Yorkshire!

Younger kids will love Diggerland in Wakefield or the excellent, hands on National Children’s Museum ‘Eureka’ in Halifax.

Our kids enjoyed the National Science and Media Museum in Bradford though I felt old looking at toys I used to play with now displayed in a museum! 

One of the more unusual places to visit in Yorkshire is the National Coal Mining Museum in Wakefield.

Visitors must don a hard hat and descend 140 metres in a mining cage for an underground tour with an ex miner. This Yorkshire attraction is more suitable for older children. 

Younger children will enjoy the adventure playground and bird garden at Harewood House. Tours of the house and grounds are also available. 

One of our favourite family days out in West Yorkshire is the Yorkshire Sculpture Park. As visitors only pay for parking, this is a fantastic value for money day out.

The family friendly 500 acre park is packed with quirky and intriguing sculptures of all shapes and sizes. You can easily spend a whole at the Yorkshire Sculpture Park and still not see everything.

And if you are visiting Yorkshire with kids around Halloween or Christmas, the themed activities at Stockeld Park are a must though it is worth visiting year round!

Things to do with kids in Leeds

Older children will enjoy the Royal Armouries Museum whilst younger children will love Tropical World  in Roundhay Park.

Take a trip on Middleton Railway, the oldest working railway in the world or discover Leeds on a fun, downloadable Treasure Hunt Leeds Trail.

Visit the Abbey House Museum, with its recreated Victorian street, or the quirky Thackeray Medical Museum .

I’d also recommend a trip to impressive Temple Newsam , an enormous stately home estate with a Rare Breeds farm on site.

Things to do with kids in East Yorkshire

William’s Den is a popular attraction with locals and visitors alike and is more suitable for younger children. The 15 acre park offers woodland trails as well as indoor and outdoor adventure play areas.  

Sewerby Hall near Bridlington is a 50 park with historic house, landscaped gardens and small zoo. Other East Riding historic houses we have enjoyed with our kids are Burton Agnes Hall and Burton Constable Hall. 

For something different, visit the John Bull World of Rock . For £14 a family of four can tour the factory to see how rock is made.

‘Rock’ is a British seaside tradition (it is basically a delicious but jaw breaking hard roll of candy) and for an extra £1.50, you can have a go at making your own, personalised rock!

Just outside York is the brilliant Elvington Air Museum, our son’s favourite York attraction.

East Yorkshire coast

Bridlington is a popular seaside resort with arcades and a events spa and a expansive sandy beach. Further along is Fraisthorpe Beach, a flat beach popular for swimming and kite surfing.

Withernsea is a sandy Blue Flag beach with newly built promenade. Don’t miss the town’s inland lighthouse where families can climb 144 steps to the top of the lighthouse for a 360 degree view of Withernsea.

At the end of the Trans Pennine Trail lies Hornsea, a charming seaside resort boasting another sandy Blue Flag beach.

Spurn Point is well worth visiting. This 3 1/2 mile sandy peninsula stretches out from the Holderness Coast into the River Humber.

It is only 50 metres wide in places and offers excellent bird watching and walking trails and cannot be accessed by car. The lighthouse here is also open to the public.

Follow safety instructions carefully at ‘The Point’ as there is a risk of getting cut off from the mainland at high tide. 

Things to do with kids in Hull

Hull is an underrated destination in Yorkshire for families as the city has lots of family friendly attractions, many of which are free.

Streetlife Museum of Transport charts the history of 200 years of transport through 6 interactive galleries plus there is a recreated 1940’s street with shops you can enter.

Older children and history fans should visit Wilberforce House, the birthplace of William Wilberforce. Exhibits explain the history of the slave trade and its abolition.

The Hull and East Riding Museum is a lesser known gem and is packed with archaeological finds and historical artefacts including the only dinosaur bones found in East Yorkshire.

All three museums are free to enter and lie in Hull’s historic Museum Quarter which is easily covered on foot.

One unmissable Yorkshire day out is The Deep, one of the biggest aquariums in the U.K.

This not for profit aquarium is home to over 5,000 species in 50 exhibits. We have visited several times and there is always something new to see. Check The Deep website for daily talks and events.

So there you have it – a comprehensive list of the 100 best things to do with kids in Yorkshire!

And there are so many more things to do in Yorkshire that you will leave planning to return.

Have you visited Yorkshire with kids? What was your favourite attraction?

Things To Do In York With Kids

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• Discover & learn

Family-friendly places in Yorkshire

Head off on new family adventures in Yorkshire. Set off on a bike ride in the countryside, seek out natural play areas, spot spring wildlife, and spend time together. Even if it's raining, we've still got plenty to do indoors to keep your little ones entertained.

May half term in Yorkshire

Plan your next school holiday at a National Trust place near you in Yorkshire. Pick your local favourite or head out further afield to try somewhere new...or do both, we're not counting.

East Riddlesden Hall  

Calling all history detectives and mud kitchen creatives with a buzzing bee theme in the holidays.

Beningbrough  

Birds are the theme this half term with the start of a brand new feathered friends trail and crafts to get stuck into.

Ormesby Hall  

It's all about musical mayhem this half term - the louder the better.

Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal  

Pick up the new school holiday nature trail or plan ahead for a puppet performance complete with singing owls.

Pretend to be a bee this half term on the wildflowers and pollinators trail and head into the house for craft activities.

Wentworth Castle Gardens  

Can you escape the gardens this half term or try out the new sensory trail together.

Nunnington Hall  

Have fun at the fete his school holiday with village fete themed gardens throughout the garden.

Places to visit with the family in Yorkshire

Want to know what to expect when you visit with family? From play areas to places for ball games, picnic spots and places for ice cream, plan your time together.

There are acres of space where little legs can explore and imaginations run riot at Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal. Become an abbey explorer and discover all the hidden corners of the ruins. There's also a large adventure play area close to the visitor centre.

Beningbrough Hall  

Discover the family activities and events at Beningbrough, from den building in the wilderness play area to nature spotting on a walk. Look out for new trails and activities during the school holidays.

Get ready for a day out that's jam-packed with fun in the gardens, adventure play area and parkland at Nostell. Bring your bikes and explore the cycle trails through the woodland.

Enjoy a visit with the family to Ormesby Hall, with lots to see and do inside the house and in the garden.

From helping build a bug hotel to making the messiest mud pie ever, here are some ideas for families to enjoy at East Riddlesden Hall.

There's plenty for all of the family to do on a visit to Nunnington Hall. From art exhibitions to games, crafts and more, including our Lion's Den play area.

Wentworth Castle Gardens is the perfect place for a family adventure. Explore the gardens - from the turrets of Stainborough Castle to the hiding places in the Union Jack Gardens. Try out our Multisensory or Orienteering Trails, and don't forget to call into the adventure play area before you leave.

Brimham Rocks  

There are plenty of ways to explore Brimham Rocks, from walking and cycling, to orienteering and geocaching. Discover the outdoor activities on offer.

Play areas in Yorkshire

There’s nothing quite like playing outdoors. Swooshing down slides, clambering over logs and letting your imagination run wild. It’s no wonder that play areas are an essential part of many family days out. Here are some top places to play in Yorkshire.

Head to the woodland adventure play area at Nostell  

Jump, swing and slide in the adventure play area tucked away in the woodland. There are climbing frames with slides, a huge fort, balance beams, swings and a big wobbly bridge. Feel the wind in your hair as you zoom between the trees on the zip wire - it's a whopping 30 metres long!

Let off steam in the play area at Fountains Abbey  

There's a huge play area just two minutes from the visitor centre where little adventurers can run wild - you'll find a wooden abbey, a woodland lookout, scramble nets and posts, swings, fireman's poles, a slide, a roundabout, a gigantic rope bridge and a huge zip wire to enjoy.

Discover the Wilderness play area at Beningbrough  

Unleash your wild ones on the 7-metre pyramid tower and slide, cantilever swing and clamber stack or explore the zone for smaller children, where they can climb and get creative in the Wendy house or soar to new heights in a bucket swing.

Go wild in the natural play area at Ormesby Hall  

Head to the bottom of the garden at Ormesby Hall and let the kids go wild in the natural play area. They can perform on the Willow Stage and challenge themselves on the rope walk, log stepping stones and balance see-saw.

Conquer the castle at Wentworth Castle Gardens  

Conquer the wooden castle, zoom down a zip-line, fly through the air on the swings, whoosh down the slide and try the new accessible see-saw as you get your muscles moving in the adventure play area.

Find the Discovery Garden at East Riddlesden Hall  

Tucked away within the trees, this natural play area has lots for little ones to discover. Find the hidden entrance to start your adventure. Cook up a messy masterpiece in the mud pie kitchen, make some music with the chimes, practice balancing on the rope bridge or use the wheelbarrows to make a hedgehog house with leaves.

Enter the Lion's Den play area at Nunnington Hall  

Enter the Lion's Den play area where little explorers can climb up, over, and wobble along a natural obstacle course. There are tree stump steps to jump across, a rope bridge to climb across as well as a wooden climbing frame to conquer.

Family adventures further afield

Discover more family days out in the North of England and Derbyshire with plenty of places to play, explore, and create memories.

Family-friendly places in the North East  

Make new family memories in the North East this summer. From weekend and school holiday adventures, nature-inspired walks, houses to explore and play areas to let off steam, there's something for everyone come rain or shine at the places we care for.

Family-friendly places in Cheshire and Greater Manchester  

Plan your a family day out in Cheshire and Greater Manchester. We've got play areas, activities for kids, wildlife to spot and plenty of things to do when it rains.

Family-friendly places in Liverpool and Lancashire  

Plan your family day out in Liverpool and Lancashire. From the beauty of the great outdoors and amazing histories to play areas, balance bikes and even a maze, there's something for the whole family to enjoy rain or shine.

Family-friendly places to visit in the Peak District and Derbyshire  

Explore the Peak District and Derbyshire with your family, including outdoor play areas and a country house designed specially for younger visitors.

Discover more in Yorkshire

Home to abbey ruins, houses, gardens and stretches of coast and countryside including the Dales and the North York Moors.

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An Insider’s Guide To Visiting Yorkshire With Kids

Explore My City today takes a trip to the UK with Jo from Kiddie Holidays

Yorkshire is the largest county in England  and was showcased to the world in 2014 when a section of The Tour De France cycling race swept through. Millions of people all around the world got to see the immense scenery of the Yorkshire Dales, our long stretches of beaches and world-class cities like York and Leeds.

I’ve been lucky enough to live in Yorkshire for most of my life, and I love it! Today I’m going to share with you some of my top 5 places to visit in Yorkshire with children – a fabulous UK road trip destination and a wonderful cheap place to visit in the north of England .

1. A Day Out At The Seaside

A day out at the seaside is a must if you are visiting Yorkshire. We are lucky enough to have hundreds of miles of coastline , with quaint fishing villages, Victorian seaside towns and larger resorts, like Scarborough and Bridlington, dotted along the coast.

We had a fantastic day out in Whitby earlier in the year, and we arrived in style – on a steam train across the North Yorkshire Moors ! The North Yorkshire Moors Railway departs from the market town of Pickering and chugs across the moors to Whitby where you can spend the day getting lost in the narrow, cobbled streets, visiting Whitby Abbey or just chilling on the beach.

Robin Hood’s Bay is just 4 miles from Whitby and is a small fishing village which is known for it’s smuggling past. It used to be a smuggling hotspot which was made even easier because of it’s tiny streets and hillside position, but nowadays, it’s the perfect place to go rock pooling.

The Old Coastguard’s station is also open to visitors, and there are daily tours around the village where you can learn more about Robin Hood’s Bay’s exciting past.

Another of our favourite days out at the seaside is Filey . This Victorian seaside town is less commercialised than its larger neighbours but has a 7-mile-long beach which is great for playing on, paddling in the sea or building sandcastles.

Explore family-friendly places to stay in Filey

2. Explore the city of York

York is one of our favourite days out, particularly in the summer when the city really comes alive. The city’s historic centre is a pleasure to amble around, and there are plenty of family-friendly restaurants , coffee shops and patisseries if you want to take a break – don’t miss afternoon tea at Betty’s Tea Room !

On hot days, nothing is better than hiring a boat from York Boat and cruising up the river past the Millennium Bridge through the outskirts of the city.

We love the Two Hoots Ice Cream boat, which moors up at various places along the river and sells exciting flavours of ice cream, such as peaches and cream and salted caramel.

The Museum Gardens is the perfect place for a picnic in York and is about 10 minute’s walk from the world-famous National Railway Museum – a must for train lovers. If you fancy stretching your legs, a walk around the City Walls is also a great way to get an idea of the scale of the city and admire the spectacular views.

Explore family-friendly places to stay in York

3. The Yorkshire Dales

You can’t come to Yorkshire without visiting the Yorkshire Dales. Our favourite place to visit in the Yorkshire Dales is Malham Cove . Malham Cove is a 260-metre cliff edge which you can climb to the top of to get spectacular views – even the kids will be impressed!

You can combine a trip to Malham Cove with a walk to Janet’s Foss waterfall – some brave people even go swimming in Janet’s Foss in the summer (not me!)

There are loads of family-friendly places to visit in the Yorkshire Dales, such as Thornton Hall Country Park where the kids can meet animals and go on tractor rides and Kilnsey Park where the kids can have a go at fishing.

Somewhere I really want to visit, but haven’t yet, is the Forbidden Corner near Richmond. I’ve heard so many great things about this unique attraction, but basically, it is a 4-acre garden with a labyrinth of tunnels, chambers, follies and surprises!

4. Dalby Forest

Dalby Forest is a Forestry Commission-run forest on the southern slopes of the North York Moors National Park. For just £8 per car, you can have a day out in the woods playing in the play areas, walking on the trails and cycling along the family-friendly trails.

There is a bike hire shop where you can get bikes if you don’t have your own. In the summer months, there is the Stick Man Games based on the popular character from the Julia Donaldson books, where you can take place in 8 stick-themed activity stations such as hopsticks and jumping sticks.

5. Bolton Abbey

Bolton Abbey is another fantastic day out for families visiting the Yorkshire Dales. It is the Yorkshire seat of the 12th Duke of Devonshire, and with over 30 000 acres of countryside and 80 miles of footpaths, there is something for everyone.

In the summer, there is a Welly Walk, an activity trail of obstacles for kids to climb under, over and through, and a pretty little river beach, the perfect spot for a bit of paddling. You can park at Bolton Abbey, or we park at Embasy train station and catch the Bolton Abbey & Embasy Steam Train to Bolton Abbey, from where it is about a mile walk to the actual abbey.

Explore further through the Yorkshire Dales

Author’s Bio

Jo is a Yorkshire-born and bred mum of two little boys, an occasional marathon runner and once RTW traveller. She blogs about holidays and days out for babies and toddlers at Kiddieholidays .

You might want to read next in the Explore my City series from the UK visiting the Peak District with kids , or how about visiting the Lake District with kids ?

Did you catch the rest of our Explore My City Series?

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I love reading your posts, Keri! Yorkshire is stunning!

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Yorkshire Wonders

18 Fabulous things to do in York with kids

Things to do in York with kids – York is a fabulous place to live and to visit.  I grew up in York, and live just outside York now, so am very familiar with all the lovely things to do. 

You will find lots of reviews of things to do with kids in York on this blog, but to save you searching, here is a handy list.  Do click around though as we have lots of other suggestions and reviews.  I’ve divided the list into things to do in York itself and things to do just outside of York.

Things to do in York City Centre

The wizard walk of york.

Book tickets for The Wizard Walk of York.

The Magic Hatter is bringing his award-winning entertainment to the streets, with his Wizard Walk of York.

“Magic, mystery, comedy and excitement plus a dash of York’s history…the ingredients for a truly unforgettable experience for all the family!”

Public tours are running on selected evenings, starting from the bottom of The Shambles opposite The Golden Fleece. Pre-booking required.  Private tours are available for birthdays, school groups, brownies, cubs and more. A wonderfully whimsical tour that wizard fans will go Potty for!

Wizard Wand Kits are also available, subject to availability. A handcrafted wand and instructions for seven tricks that young witches and wizards can learn at home. Plus a FREE printable certificate!  

** Note from Nikki: If you have younger kids with you, there is no better tour for you.  We have seen The Magic Hatter many, many times when the kids were little and wholeheartedly recommend him. ** 

Treasurer’s House, York

Treasurer’s House is a National Trust property in the centre of York, right next to York Minster.  The house itself is a quirky eclectic mix of styles and the gardens are a beautiful oasis is the middle of busy York.  Usual National Trust fees apply to the house, but the gardens are free to enter.

Have a look at our review of Treasurer’s House.

Hole in Wand Mini Golf

The Hole in Wand is a fabulous wizard themed mini golf just opposite Jorvik Viking Centre.  “Visit the World’s Most Magical Golf Course in York’s Coppergate Shopping Centre in York, and take on 9 magical golf holes.

Along the way there will be bubbling cauldrons, magical portals, a giant picture frame where you become part of the painting…and can you do a Light Spell to illuminate the way in our dark hole?

At the end of your adventure you will find out if you have the magical powers of a Serpent, Basilisk, Unicorn or Wizard and every player will receive a magic potion gift to take home, plus hopefully find Grobblenook!”

York Minster

It might not immediately spring to mind as one of your top things to do with children in York – but do consider it.  It is such an amazing building – awesome in the purist sense of the word.  My two love it when we visit and there is so much for them to do and explore there.

Young explorers are encouraged to get hands-on during a visit to York Minster with a range of activities to help them explore the cathedral’s stories and discover fun facts.

Little Explorer Backpacks can be borrowed for free from our welcome desks and are packed with gadgets to help young adventurers explore the Minster including:

• I-Spy challenge – can you spot these details around the cathedral?
• Binoculars – to see those amazing features up-close
• Torch and mirror – to investigate the nooks and crannies
• Compass and map – to find your way
• Magnifying glass – to spot those hidden details
• Coloured pencils and paper – sketch what you see!
• Tape measure and pencils – for measuring and recording

The Bar Walls

York is a walled city and the Bar Walls are a fabulous place to walk around with children.  They are quite high, and there are places where there is no guard to stop you falling off (less so now than when I was a child though!). But if the kids are older, or you don’t mind holding their hands over the less safe bits, then the Bar Walls are an absolute must for a visit to York. 

They are not complete and don’t entirely circle the city any longer, but are long enough to provide a good long walk.  There is no cost to walk the walls and you get to see the city from a completely different perspective.  In the spring, the banks of the walls are covered with daffodils.  I recently walked the walls from Bootham Bar to Monk Bar and can confirm there are railings all the way along that stretch.

Jorvik Viking Centre

Jorvik Viking Centre is a must see place to visit in the centre of York.   You begin your journey in an anteroom with a glass floor where you can see the foundations of an actual Viking house.  From there you are taken on a carriage journey back in time to experience the sights, sounds and smells of a Viking settlement.  It’s the stinky smells that the kids love!  Make sure you book ahead of time as the queues can be huge! 

Have a look at our  full review here.

York Castle Museum, North Yorkshire

York Castle Museum is a fab day out with the kids and so much more than your average museum.  It’s huge and you could happily spend a day there.  There’s lots of interesting things for the kids to look at and touch as well as a whole section on the history of toys! 

We have reviewed York Castle Museum here .

Things to do in York with kids

York’s chocolate story, york.

This is a lovely visit to do if you are in York for the day. Learn all about the history of chocolate in York and make your own chocolate bars. Lots of chocolate tasting throughout the tour to keep the kids amused.  They do a brilliant day with Santa at Christmas too.

Have a look at our review of York’s Chocolate Story.

National Railway Museum , York

From steam rides to storytelling, we’ve got lots of hands-on fun for the whole family.  The National Railway Museum is a FREE attraction in York, and perfect for little train enthusiasts!  They also do a splendid afternoon tea in a restored carriage !

Jorvik Dig, York

Looking for something a bit different? DIG is a hands-on archaeological adventure giving kids the chance to become trainee ‘diggers’ and discover the most exciting artefacts from 2000 years of York’s history!

Have a look at our review of Jorvik Dig.

Things to do on the outskirts of York

York maze, north yorkshire.

York Maze is brilliant and a fantastic day out, we love it there and go every year.  They are only open during the Summer and at Halloween – we have reviewed both!  It’s so much more than a maze with bouncy pillows, giant slides, and enormous sandpit and playground and panto like shows, it’s an ideal family day out near York.

See our review of York Maze here.

Beetle Bank Farm, Murton, York

Let off steam in the fields, go wild in the adventure playground, have fun in the sand pit or ride on the tractors and play with the inflatables. We predict two things: you won’t be bored and you’ll sleep well tonight!  One of the many great things to do in York with toddlers.

Piglets Adventure Farm Park

Piglets Adventure Farm Park is a fabulous place to visit just outside York, and a great day out for younger kids.  They have lots of seasonal events, play equipment, animals and theatrical entertainment.  One of my favourite things for kids to do in York when they were younger!

Have a look at our review of  May-Hem at Piglets.

Creepy Crawlies Soft Play, York

Creepy Crawlies is a huge softplay and outdoor adventure playground in York and an excellent choice on a wet day when you are looking for things to do in York with kids.  Suitable for babies right up to older kids. 

See our review of Creepy Crawlies here.

Energi Trampoline Park, York, North Yorkshire

A brilliant place for the kids to bounce and let off steam to their hearts content!  There is a reasonable priced cafe selling teas, coffees and snacks too with a great view over the trampolines.

See our review of Energi Trampoline Park, York here.

Things to do Just outside of York

Northwood trail fairy sanctuary – enchanted woodland walk.

This is a brand new attraction about 15 minutes East of York.  Set in a hundred acres of woodland, the Northwood Trail is an enchanted walk around fairy houses with surprises around every corner.  There is maze around halfway around and a play area and den building site at the end of the walk.

Have a look at our review of the Northwood Trail here.

Beningbrough Hall, York

Beningbrough Hall is a fab stately home just outside of York, and on our list of places to visit in Yorkshire.  There is lots to see in the Hall itself and they have extensive gardens and a large, newly refurbished adventure playground.  They also have organised activities on for children over the school holidays.

Have a look at our review to see what else there is to do with the kids at Beningbrough Hall.

Castle Howard, Malton

Castle Howard is a little bit further out of York but I wanted to give it a mention as it’s a stunning places to visit.  It has both a magnificent house and grounds.  A recent addition of a brand new adventure playground – Skelf Island – has made it an even more attractive proposition to visit with kids.

See our review of Castle Howard and Skelf Island here.

For more ideas check out What To Do In.

Also look at my other round ups for different times of the year, Things to do in York with kids at February half term , Easter , May half term , Summer Holidays , October half term and at Christmas . 

If it’s raining there is still plenty to do!  Have a look at my list of ideas for rainy days in Yorkshire.

Top 16 Places to Visit With Kids in Yorkshire

Updated on: 25th September 2023

We love our days out and Yorkshire has hundreds of family-friendly places to visit. As a Yorkshire based family travel and days out writer I often get asked where we would personally recommend.

In this post I have listed our favourite 16 places to enjoy a day out with kids in Yorkshire. These have been chosen from a huge number of places that we have been to. I have only included places we have loved so much that we would return to over and over again.

AD | I have been or could be if you click on a link in this post compensated via a cash payment, gift or something else of value for writing this post. See our full disclosure policy and privacy policy for more details.

This is a guest post by Suzy from Where to go with Kids . Their website and Facebook page are packed full of inspiration for having fun as a family across the four counties of Yorkshire.

Bridlington – East Riding of Yorkshire

A Bit About – Bridlington is a seaside tourist town in East Yorkshire. It has so much to do there. You can choose to do as little or as much as you like. You could start at south beach with its huge sandy beach, a paddling pool and the Bridlington Spa theatre . Or you could visit the harbour with pirate ship rides, speed boat rides plus longer boat rides on the Yorkshire Belle. The harbour is also a great place for a spot of crabbing. This is also a great area for fish and chips.

A little further on from here you will find lots of amusement arcades and fairground rides. There is a leisure centre with an excellent pool and splash area plus land train rides up to Bondville model village and Sewerby Hall and Gardens. We love to have a game of crazy golf here and the beach is sandy but with a lot of white pebbles for building sculptures on the sand. 

Brimham Rocks – North Yorkshire

Address: Brimham Moor Road, Summerbridge, Harrogate HG3 4DW

A Bit About – Brimham Rocks is a great free day out. The site is maintained by the National Trust and only non-members have to pay to park. There is a large collection of natural rock formations that you can explore and climb. Most of the formations have been named after things that they look like such as dancing bear, eagle and the Druid’s writing desk (recently nick-named E.T.). It is a great place to challenge yourself and it will feel like a really great big adventure to the kids. 

Find out more

Castle Howard – North Yorkshire

Address: Castle Howard, York YO60 7DA

A Bit About – Castle Howard is a large stately home that you can look around. It is really impressive and has some of the finest rooms that I’ve ever seen. The main highlight for families is the extensive grounds and amazing adventure playgrounds . Skelf Island is a relatively new addition with a rope bridge across the water, if you dare. Plus large wooden structures and bridges that kids will love to explore. Next to this is the ‘older’ but very much up-to-date adventure playground which is also great fun. There is so much to play on and there is something for all age ranges. In the grounds there are buildings to find and a stunning fountain that looks like it could be in Rome . 

Diggerland – West Yorkshire

Address: Willowbridge Ln, Castleford WF10 5NW

A Bit About – Located in Castleford near Wakefield you will find this JCB themed park. There are lots of rides most of which have height restrictions. I would say that Diggerland is mostly suited to children over 90cms (possibly a little taller). The rides are really unique and include a digger claw ride, diggers kids can drive, digger arm games and so much more. There is an indoor soft play area if the weather takes a turn for the worse. 

Eden Camp Modern History Theme Museum – North Yorkshire

Address: Malton YO17 6RT

A Bit About – Housed in an old prisoner of war camp from WWII you will find one of the most intriguing and interesting museums that you will ever visit. The exhibitions are in all the old nissan huts and each is home to new and interesting surprises. You can expect moving animations, smells, special effects and sounds to take you right back to war time. Some of our favourites include a hut made to look like the inside of a submarine, an air raid shelter with a street under attack and a recreated street which smells of sweets. There is also a fun playground with towers and walkways plus a smaller playground for younger children with new wooden play equipment. 

Flamborough Selwicks Bay – East Riding of Yorkshire

Address: Lighthouse Road, Flamborough, Bridlington YO15 1AP

A Bit About – There are four beaches in Flamborough and Selwicks Bay is our favourite. It sits down to the left side of Flamborough head with the ‘new’ lighthouse looking down over it. It is quite a steep walk down to the bottom which isn’t accessible especially as there are some metal steps near the bottom. I urge you to check the tide times before you visit as there is little to the beach at high tide. At low tide though the beach really comes alive with rock pools and caves that you can explore. If you head left when the tide is out there is a really lovely part of the beach you can walk to with rocky cliffs and hidden inlets. If you’re lucky you may even spot a puffin.

Find out more . 

Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden – North Yorkshire

Address: Fountains, Ripon HG4 3DY

A Bit About – Fountains Abbey is owned by the National Trust and it is a really huge site to explore. There is an excellent wooden adventure playground for the kids and a few historic buildings that you can look around. The abbey itself is largely a ruin but it is an amazing place and there is more to see than first meets the eye. The Royal Water garden is really beautiful and there are follies to be found plus a pretty lake. We can spend hours and hours here exploring and still not see everything. 

Forbidden Corner – North Yorkshire

Address: The Forbidden Corner, Middleham, Leyburn DL8 4TJ

A Bit About – This is our favourite, top of the list, place to visit. We love it because it’s so unique. I’ve never been anywhere quite like it. There is so much to find! It’s full of follies with a surprise at every turn. You will feel a little bit lost and disorientated but that just adds to the fun. There is a crypt like building that small children may find scary but you don’t have to go inside if you don’t want to. Our favourite folly is a building with eyes that move. When you enter you enter into its mouth – be careful it may well burp. You then move through its body and exit through its tail. There is a lovely adventure playground for the kids. 

Gulliver’s Valley – South Yorkshire

Address: Mansfield Rd, Sheffield S26 5QW

A Bit About – Opened in July 2020 is the latest Gullivers theme park . It’s a great day out for toddlers to children of around the age of 10. There are around 23 rides most of which are outdoors with plenty of family rides and a few thrill rides. Indoors there is a huge play area including climbing walls, crazy golf, caves, 3 rides and more. The park has different themed areas with dinosaurs , pirates and cowboys. They have plans to expand the park over the next few years and you can even stay on-site.

Monk Park Farm – North Yorkshire

Address: Green Ln, Thirsk YO7 2AG

A Bit About – This is our favourite farm park in Yorkshire. We love it because it allows you to get as close as possible to their animals. We can’t wait to return as they’ve upgraded the play equipment since we were last there and added some more accessible paths. We can never buy enough animal food! There are always plenty of eager mouths to feed and most of their animals also love to be stroked. A lot of their animals also wander around freely which is lovely for the kids to be able to see them without a fence in between. A big favourite of ours is when you can help feed the guinea pigs. It’s a great place for kids to stretch their legs.

Newby Hall and Gardens – North Yorkshire

Address: Newby Hall, Skelton-on-Ure, Ripon HG4 5AE

A Bit About – Newby Hall is an elegant Georgian House with spectacular interiors and with 25 acres of award winning gardens. The playground is one of our favourites in Yorkshire as it’s really unique. The main highlight are the mini pedalos for kids which they peddle around a moat using their hands (adults unless very small and light can’t take part). The island in the middle has a really wobbly bridge and there’s a play turret, zip wire and more. Another highlight is the chain ferry which kids can move themselves along the water’s edge. There is a cute bear’s house museum plus a museum full of dolls houses. You can also purchase tickets for a miniature train ride or a boat ride on the water. The house is sometimes open to the public although we haven’t been around it as yet.

Scarborough – North Yorkshire

There are lots of seaside resorts and beaches on the Yorkshire coastline but Scarborough and Bridlington are always my favourite places when it comes to a busy family day out with a choice of things to do. Scarborough south beach has the smaller of the two beaches but it’s where you will find all the amusements and most of the restaurants. There is a big wheel with pirate crazy golf then further up there is a harbour with boat rides, crabbing and a few fairground rides. You can take the cliff lift up into town where the shops are or walk the hill up to Scarborough Castle.

The south beach in Scarborough is the largest although can be almost covered at high tide. There is another crazy golf course, rock pooling at low tide plus the pretty Peasholm Park with an oriental theme and boating. You can take the steam train to the Scarborough Sea Life centre or further up the coast there is Alpamare which is one of the UK’s biggest water parks. 

Stockeld Park – North Yorkshire

Address: Wetherby Rd, Wetherby LS22 4AN

A Bit About – If your kids love to play then Stockeld Park is the place for them. It has a circular trail through the woods which is full of magic and fairy tales. Along the way there are lots of excellent play areas and all sorts of intriguing things to find. The park also has a huge hedge maze which is great fun. Plus a cute wooden tractor themed play area, go-karts and in the summer they usually have a large inflatable assault course. 

Tropical Butterfly House Wildlife and Falconry Centre  – South Yorkshire

Address: Woodsetts Rd, North Anston, Sheffield S25 4EQ

A Bit About – We have been here every year as we love it so much. It’s not a massive place but we can spend hours there. It has some really lovely aspects to it such as dinosaurs hidden in the woods which kids can press buttons to make come alive, a wallaby walk-through, a witches house and lots of water fun. I can recommend buying their mixed food box as you get to feed lots of different animals. One of the highlights is feeding the lorikeets in the butterfly house. I also love the lemur talks as you get to go into their enclosure. They also sometimes have tractor rides and their bird and animal displays are worth a watch. Make sure you take a change of clothes as there is a fun sand and water play area plus other smaller play areas.

York Maze – North Yorkshire

Address: York maze, Elvington Ln, York YO19 5LT

A Bit About – This is a seasonal attraction which I probably shouldn’t have included but it is such a great day out I can’t not include it. It opens from mid July until early September and there is a great variety of things to do. There is always a huge maize maze plus other smaller mazes. They have over 20 rides and attractions. Other things to do include sand play, big slides, obstacle course, crazy golf, bouncy pillow and so much more. If you are looking for a really fun day out then this place is a must. 

Yorkshire Sculpture Park – West Yorkshire

Address: West Bretton, Wakefield WF43 4LG

A Bit About – This is a vast parkland with art sculptures dotted around the landscape. The park covers 500 acres and the sculptures are spread out far and wide. You will never manage to see everything in one day so it may be an idea to consult a map before you start walking. There is a large lake with a long walk that has follies to find along the way. Some of the sculptures do change throughout the year but you should be able to see sculptures by Barbara Hepworth and Henry Moore. 

Thanks for reading. I hope you will find some inspiration for your next family day out in Yorkshire.

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5 thoughts on “Top 16 Places to Visit With Kids in Yorkshire”

That’s an impressive collection of places you have mentioned here. The landscapes look interesting and would be great outdoorsy fun for kids. Thanks for sharing.

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30 amazing days out for toddlers in Yorkshire

Looking for something to keep toddlers and preschoolers entertained in Yorkshire? From wildlife parks and toddler-friendly museums, to steam engines and fairy trails, we've got the best toddler days out across Yorkshire.

Looking for something to keep toddlers and preschoolers entertained in Yorkshire?

From wildlife parks and toddler-friendly museums, to steam engines and fairy trails, we’ve rounded up the best days out for toddlers across Yorkshire.

1. Diggerland Yorkshire Castleford

If you've got a digger fan on your hands, they're going to love Diggerland Yorkshire .

The biggest of four Diggerland sites in the UK, kids can ride, drive and operate REAL diggers, dumpers and other full-size construction machinery. (Don't worry, adults can have a go, too!)

Play areas, sandpits and rides add to the fun.

Good news for older toddlers, kids over 90cm can ride on the majority of rides while those under 90cm get free entry and will still enjoy seeing the machinery up close.

Where: Diggerland Yorkshire, Willowbridge Ln, Castleford, Yorkshire WF10 5NW

2. Yorkshire Wildlife Park, Doncaster

With nearly 500 animals from leopards to lemurs, this walk-through wildlife adventure is a great visit for all ages.

Toddlers will love seeing polar bears, lions and tigers up close, watching meerkats at feeding time and running around in the play areas along the way – including the new dinosaur-themed Uproar! Play Barn.

Kids aged two and under go free at Yorkshire Wildlife Park , although there is a charge for the Play Barn.

Where: Yorkshire Wildlife Park, Hurst Lane, Doncaster, DN9 3HQ

3. Eureka! The National Children's Museum, Halifax

Forget stuffy museums, Eureka! is designed specifically for kids aged 0-11 and has plenty of fun-packed areas for under 5s.

There are loads of interactive exhibits to get involved with and learn about the world.

Toddlers will particularly enjoy exploring the child-sized town, meeting friendly robots, visiting the story tent, enjoying the light shows and listening to lullabies from across the world.

Where: Eureka! The National Children's Museum, Discovery Road, Halifax HX1 2NE

4. Dalby Forest, Pickering

For a fun and free outdoor adventure, head to Dalby Forest in North Yorkshire.

Once toddlers have finished picking up leaves and sticks, running through trees and spotting squirrels, they can build a den in the wild play area, visit the adventure playground or spot the Gruffalo on the Gruffalo trail.

Find more places in the UK to spot the Gruffalo here.

Where: Dalby Visitor Centre, Low Dalby, Thornton-Le-Dale, Pickering, North Yorkshire, YO18 7LT

5. SEA LIFE Scarborough

From turtles and stingrays to sharks and clownfish, young kids will love exploring the colourful underwater world at SEA LIFE Scarborough .

Penguin Island – home to a colony of Humboldt Penguins – is bound to be a big hit!

Under threes are free.

Where: SEA LIFE Scarborough, Scalby Mills Road, Scarborough, North Yorkshire, YO12 6RP

6. York Maze, York

Made from more than one million growing maize plants, York Maze is the largest in the UK. Open during the summer months, it's a great day out for families with toddlers.

As well as the giant maize maze, there are sand and water play areas, you'll spot dinosaurs and there's a maze with tunnels and bridges for kids to crawl through and clamber over, too.

Don't miss our favourite, live pig racing – A-MAIZ–ING!

Where: Elvington Lane, York, YO19 5LT

7. Flamingo Land, Malton

The rollercoasters may be off limits but there's plenty more for toddlers to enjoy at this North Yorkshire theme park.

After you've visited Flamingo Land 's zoo with animals including tigers, lions, monkeys and farm favourites, hop on a kids' ride or visit the new CBeebies Peter Rabbit Adventure.

Kids can explore the Secret Treehouse, visit Jeremy Fisher’s musical pond with its giant instruments, crawl through tunnels on Lily Bobtail's Nature Discovery, and even meet Peter Rabbit himself!

Where: Flamingo Land, Kirby Misperton, Malton, North Yorkshire, YO17 6UX

8. Harewood House, Leeds

Set in the heart of Yorkshire, toddlers will love exploring the grounds and gardens of this stately home.

The renowned Bird Garden at Harewood House is home to exotic species including penguins, owls, flamingos and parrots. A boat offers tours of the lake, there's a walled garden to discover and, of course, an adventure playground.

Special events, including pop-up play spaces, take place at Harewood House throughout the year.

Under fours are free.

Where: Harewood House Trust, Harewood House Harewood, Leeds LS17 9LG

9. The Deep, Hull

Free for kids under three, The Deep is one of the UK's biggest aquariums.

Run for conservation, not profit, it's housed in a dramatic building overlooking the Hull estuary, and is home to a huge range of marine life, including penguins, stingrays, tropical fish, turtles and more.

There are daily dive shows and animal presentations.

Where: The Deep, Tower St, Hull HU1 4DP

10. The Web Adventure Park, York

This fun adventure park is designed specifically with kids in mind and has plenty to keep active toddlers occupied.

As well as a huge indoor play area, there's an outdoor adventure park, water play area, toddler trike track and animal zone where kids can see goat, ponies, chipmunks, guinea pigs, chickens and more.

If you've got older kids, there's a high-wire rope adventure, too.

Where: Web Adventure Park, Wigginton Road, York, YO32 2RH

11. Studfold Adventure Trail, North Yorkshire

Studfold Adventure Trail in the Yorkshire Dales is perfect for toddlers and younger kids to explore nature and run wild.

Fairies and pixies live in the secret woodland and meadows and are just waiting for children to discover them. How many secret fairy doors, houses and magical sounds will your kids find?

There's also den building, go karts, tractors, sensory boxes and more.

The Adventure trail is open from April to September, under threes go free.

Where: Studfold Adventure Trail, Studfold, Lofthouse, North Yorkshire, HG3 5SG

12. National Emergency Services Museum, Sheffield

Housed in a former police and fire station in Sheffield, the National Emergency Services Museum is ideal for blue light fans.

Kids can try on police gear, climb inside emergency vehicles – including RNLI boats and police motorcycles – sit in air raid shelters and have their picture taken in a fire engine.

Where: The National Emergency Services Museum, Old Police/Fire Station, West Bar, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S3 8PT

13. Lightwater Valley Theme Park, Ripon

At Lightwater Valley all rides and attractions are tailored for under 12s and there's plenty for preschoolers to enjoy at this North Yorkshire theme park, too.

Toddlers can run around in soft play areas and play parks, take a ride on mini trains and tractors, try their hand at sand digging on mini diggers, or explore the park on dragon boats and swan pedalos.

Where: Lightwater Valley Theme Park, North Stainley, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 3HT

14. Holden Park, Keighley

Holden Park – also known as Oakworth Park – in the picturesque village of Oakworth, near Bradford, is a truly magical place to explore with your toddler.

Like something out of a story book, it's home to secret caves and grottoes, mysterious pathways and woodland to run wild in.

The perfect free day out!

Where: Holden Park, Colne Road/Keighley Road, Oakworth, Keighley, BD22 7PB

15. National Railway Museum, York

Thomas the Tank engine fans will be in heaven at the National Railway Museum . Free to enter, it's right next to the train station in York.

There are loads of trains and locomotives to see, plenty of carriages for inquisitive toddlers to clamber into, a mini railway, under 5s play area, storytelling sessions and hands-on family fun activities throughout the school holidays.

Where: National Railway Museum, Leeman Road, York YO26 4XJ

16. National Centre for Birds of Prey, North Yorkshire

Set in the North Yorkshire Moors, The National Centre for Birds of Prey has a huge collection of birds who take part in impressive flying demonstrations throughout the day.

There's woodland and parkland to explore after you've watched the birds and there's also a free ink stamp trail for kids.

Where: National Centre for Birds of Prey, Duncombe Park, Helmsley, North Yorkshire, YO62 5EB

17. North Yorkshire Moors Railway

A trip on a steam train or vintage diesel train is a fun day out for all the family.

Hop on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway at one of its historic stations, including Goathland, which features in the first Harry Potter film, and take a trip to the beautiful seaside town of Whitby where toddlers will love playing on the beach, and having fish and chips and ice cream.

Where: Stations at Whitby, Grosmont, Goathland, Newtondale Halt, Levisham, Pickering

18. Piglets Adventure Farm, York

Animal-loving toddlers will have an amazing day at Piglets Adventure Farm near York. As well as visiting the Piglet Maternity Ward – where they can see mummy pigs and their piglets – there are loads of other farm animals and regular feeding and petting sessions.

It's not just animals either, kids can play in the giant sandpit, ride on tractors and tackle the Olym-Pig Obstacle Course, too.

Where: Piglets Adventure Farm, Towthorpe Grange, Towthorpe Moor Lane, York, YO32 9ST

19. The Forbidden Corner, North Yorkshire

Originally built as a private folly, The Forbidden Corner in North Yorkshire is a great place to explore with toddlers.

The four-acre garden in Tupgill Park is full of secret tunnels and surprises, including wooden statues and underground chambers – perfect for fearless kids.

Under fours go free.

Where: The Forbidden Corner, Tupgill Park Estate, Coverham, Middleham, Leyburn, North Yorkshire, DL8 4TJ

20. Stockeld Park, Wetherby

Stockeld Park is a magical adventure park in the grounds of a beautiful stately home.

In the Enchanted Forest kids can discover fairies and trolls, meet talking trees and enjoy clambering up climbing nets and sliding down slides in the adventure playground.

There are also go-karts, a farm-themed playground specially for toddlers and younger kids, and a magical maze.

Special events take place throughout the year – the Christmas illuminations are definitely worth seeing.

Under twos are free.

Where: The Adventure Park, Stockeld Park, Wetherby, North Yorkshire, LS22 4AN

21. Thornton Hall Farm Country Park, Skipton

At Thornton Hall Farm Country Park , kids can see a whole host of farm animals, collect eggs, pet rabbits and guinea pigs, and enjoy feeding calves and lambs.

There's plenty more fun on offer at this working farm too, including live shows, pony rides, sand pits, adventure play, a play barn and more.

Where: Thornton Hall Country Park, Thornton-in-Craven, Skipton, BD23 3TS

22. Keighley and Worth Valley Railway, West Yorkshire

A great option for transport-loving toddlers, the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway takes you on a five-mile journey through Bronte country on a steam engine or vintage diesel train.

Special family-focused events take place throughout the year – look out for the Elf Express towards Christmas!

The railway was the location for the classic film The Railway Children and a sequel starring Sheridan Smith has recently been filmed there.

Under fives are free.

Where: Keighley & Worth Valley Railway, The Railway Station, Haworth, West Yorkshire, BD22 8NJ

23. Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden, Ripon

A National Trust property and World Heritage Site in North Yorkshire, there's loads of fun for younger kids at Fountains Abbey .

Toddlers will love exploring the huge ruined abbey, running through the acres of grounds, checking out the vibrant artworks and statues in the water garden, and then following the river path to the deer park.

If you're lucky, you'll spot some of the Red, Fallow and Sika deer who live there.

Where: Fountains Abbey, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 3DY

24. Tropical Butterfly House Wildlife Conservation Park, Sheffield

There's more than just butterflies at the Tropical Butterfly House Wildlife Conservation Park near Sheffield.

Kids can also meet lemurs, meerkats, owls, otters, snakes and other animals as well as getting up close to butterflies, birds, bats, crocodiles and creepy-crawlies in the indoor rainforest.

Once you've seen the animals, there's a playground, wet play and an indoor craft centre.

Where: Tropical Butterfly House Ltd, Woodsetts Road, North Anston, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S25 4EQ

25. Calypso Cove Waterpark, Barnsley

If you want to take your toddler for a fun day in the pool, Calypso Cove in Barnsley is a great choice.

It's pirate-themed with a giant pirate ship, wave machine, a selection of different pools and flumes.

You'll probably spend most of your time in Barnacle Bay, though. An interactive play area, it's specifically for toddlers and younger kids, and has water jets, a mini slide and loads more splashy fun!

Where: Calypso Cove, Metrodome Leisure Complex, Queens Ground, Queens Road, Barnsley, S71 1AN

26. Mother Shipton's, North Yorkshire

England's oldest tourist attraction, Mother Shipton’s Cave and the Petrifying Well were once home to a prophetess, Mother Shipton, whose well could turn ordinary objects into stone.

The cave, where she's said to have been born, is cool but it's the walk there that toddlers will really love. Following the river Nidd, kids can spot hidden carvings in the trees, play on the adventure playground and press buttons to hear all about the story of Mother Shipton.

It's worth noting, there's no access to the cave itself with pushchairs but a pushchair shelter is provided.

Where: Mother Shipton's Cave, Prophecy Lodge, High Bridge, Knaresborough, North Yorkshire, HG5 8DD

27. Newby Hall and Gardens, Ripon

While toddlers might not be interested in the interior of this stately home, they'll love exploring Newby Hall's extensive gardens.

They'll also love the miniature railway, which runs alongside the river, and the adventure playground, complete with a dancing water area.

There's an impressive dollshouse exhibition as well – and the hall is also home to Gyles Brandreth's teddy bear collection!

Where: Newby Hall, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 5AE

28. National Coal Mining Museum, Wakefield

The National Coal Mining Museum near Wakefield is free of charge, making it a great low-cost Yorkshire day out.

And while kids need to be five or older to go on the underground tour of the mine, there's plenty for toddlers to explore above ground.

They can meet ponies and horses at the Pony Discovery Centre, play on the interactive coal mining displays, jump on the train used to ferry miners around the pit, or have fun in the adventure playground or Little Diggers soft play for under fives.

Where: National Coal Mining Museum for England, Caphouse Colliery, New Road, Overton, Wakefield, WF4 4RH

29. Xscape Yorkshire, Castleford

On rainy days this huge leisure complex is well worth a visit, particularly if you have older kids to entertain too. Toddler-friendly activities at Xscape Yorkshire include:

Xplore Soft Play Centre – with its dedicated toddler area

Gravity Trampoline Park – for kids aged 18 months up

Tenpin bowling – get those bumper bars up

Snozone – ski lessons and family sledging is suitable for kids aged three and over

Where: Xscape Yorkshire, Colorado Way, Glasshoughton, Castleford, WF10 4TA

30. Whitby, North Yorkshire

Which toddler doesn't love a day at the seaside? And the North Yorkshire resort of Whitby is a great choice.

The sandy beach is great for digging and there are rock pools to explore, too. You'll see fishing boats heading out from the harbour, can count the 199 steps up to the clifftop abbey – the inspiration for Bram Stoker's Dracula – and enjoy some of the UK's finest fish and chips.

Where: Whitby, North Yorkshire

Take a look at : 26 unmissable places to see the Gruffalo in 2023

If your kids love The Gruffalo, visit one of these forests, theatres, zoos, woodlands or parks where you're sure to see Mouse, Fox, Owl … and the Gruffalo himself! Gulp.

Share your favourite places to visit with toddlers and get recommendations from other parents in our forum below…

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150 Free Days Out With Kids in Yorkshire

Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Suzy McCullough

There are so many great places to visit in Yorkshire and many of them are free. In this post, I have included places that have free entry but some may have a small charge for parking. Not everyone goes to places by car and often if we do visit by car we expect there to be a fee to park especially if it’s somewhere in the city centre. To make searching easy I have split each county up into sections. You can see each county and then indoor ideas/outdoor ideas.

Please note some places may be somewhere you could visit all day, some for just a few hours and there are a few where you may want to combine your visit with something else to do in the area.

Table of Contents

EAST RIDING OF YORKSHIRE Free Days Out

Indoors free places to visit, goole museum goole.

Address: Carlisle St, Goole DN14 5DS

A Bit About – At the Goole museum, you can discover the history of the UK’s most inland port town. You can view models of vessels built in Goole that sailed from the port over the years. There is also the largest collection of paintings by Reuben Chappell. Britain’s best-known “Pierhead” painter. Children will enjoy the interactive exhibits about living and working in Goole, diving and docks.

The museum is free to visit. There is free long-stay parking behind the building.

Hands-on History Museum Hull

Address: S Church Side, Hull HU1 1RR

A Bit About – In the Old Grammar School where William Wilberforce studied houses the story of Hull and its people. The museum includes a fascinating glimpse into Victorian times, the Story of Hull and there is also an Egyptian Gallery. There is a genuine 2,600-year-old mummy and unique replicas of King Tutankhamun’s treasures. The museum is only open on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of each month.

Entry to the museum is free. The museum has no parking so you would need to park in local pay and display car parks.

Hull and East Riding Museum Hull

Address: 36 High St, Hull HU1 1NQ

A Bit About – At this Hull museum, you will enter a world where 235 million years of history are brought to life. From majestic mammoths to Saxon invaders. You can look forward to an experience that is unique, educational and fun. Walk through an Iron Age Village, enter a Roman bathhouse and look at the stunning mosaics.

Hull Maritime Museum Hull

Address: Queen Victoria Square, Hull HU1 3DX

A Bit About – Currently closed for renovations. Work has started on a major revamp of this Hull city centre museum. The museum is housed in the Victorian Dock Offices in Queen Victoria Square. You will be able to see a full-sized whale skeleton with superb ship models and stunning artefacts from Hull’s whaling, fishing and merchant trade.

Streetlife Museum Hull

Address: High St, Hull HU1 1PS

A Bit About – At the Streetlife Museum of Transport, you can enjoy all the sights, sounds and smells of the past. Step back in time with 200 years of transport history as you walk down a 1940s high street, board a tram or enjoy the pleasures of their carriage ride.

Entrance to the museum is free. The museum has no parking so you would need to park in the local pay and display car park.

The Treasure House Beverley

Address: Champney Rd, Beverley HU17 8HE

A Bit About – The Treasure House is home to a museum, art gallery, library, gift shop and cafe. The iconic building stands tall in the heart of Beverley within easy walking distance of all the town-centre car parks. You can take the lift or stairs to the very top and enjoy 360-degree views.

There are four gallery spaces to explore with temporary exhibitions and two showcasing highlights of their collection. Including a spectacular South Cave weapons cache which was discovered in 2002. There is dress-up for the kids and interactive exhibits plus craft activities.

Entrance is free. The museum does not have a car park, there are however plenty of pay and display car parks nearby.

Wilberforce House Museum Hull

Address: 23-25 High St, Hull HU1 1NQ

A Bit About – Wilberforce House is the birthplace of William Wilberforce, a famous campaigner against the slave trade. The museum tells the story of the transatlantic slave trade and its abolition as well as dealing with contemporary slavery.

Entrance to the museum is free. The museum has no parking so you would need to park in a local pay-and-display car park.

The Arcitc Corsair and Spurn Lightship are both currently closed for renovations.

OUTDOORS Free Places to visit

Allerthorpe lakeland pocklington.

Address: Melbourne Road, Pocklington, York YO42 4RL

A Bit About – Allerthorpe Lakeland is a watersports centre with a lake walk in Pocklington. It is free to visit and you do not have to take part in water sports. There is a small charge for parking which must be pre-booked. There are two play areas and two small beach areas where you can paddle in the water. Plus walks around their lakes and you can feed the fish (small charge).

Watersports are at an additional cost with canoes, open water swimming, pedalos, an inflatable aquapark, boats, kayaks, paddleboards and more. They have a pony field, goats, birds and a few small furry animals in their petting corner.

It is free to visit with a small bookable charge to park. Parking for up to 5 people costs £8. Or you can pay per person at £3 each.

Bridlington South Beach and North Beach

Address: South Beach – Princess Mary Promenade, Bridlington YO15 3LG North Beach – Bridlington YO15 2PL

A Bit About – Bridlington has two large beaches. The south beach has a larger expanse of sand, whereas the north beach has as many pebbles as it does sand but it also has stunning views of Sewerby and Flamborough cliffs. Both beaches have public toilets at various points along the way plus a promenade with no traffic. The south beach also has a small paddling area for kids.

There are plenty of things to do close by (for an additional cost). Don’t forget to check tide times before you visit although both beaches have some sand with somewhere to sit even at high tide.

There is street parking close to both beaches with a small charge to park (pay and display, there are many ticket inspectors in Brid so don’t risk it). Dogs are not permitted on some sections of the beach from May until September.

Danes Dyke near Bridlington

Address: Danes Dyke, Flamborough, Bridlington YO15 1AA

A Bit About – Danes Dyke is a beautiful beach located just a short drive from Bridlington. It has stunning cliffs and a beach covered mostly in huge white pebbles (there may occasionally be seaweed on the pebbles). There is also a 1-mile woodland walk which is equally nice.

The beach and woodland are free to visit. There is a small charge to park at their pay and display car park. Dogs are permitted all year round.

East Hull Community Farm Hull

Address: Barham Rd, Hull HU9 4EE

A Bit About – This is a real working farm that is open to the public. If you are lucky you may get to see lambs being born in the Springtime or sheep sheared in June. The farm is set in almost 7 acres of land most of which is taken up by fields for the animals.

Entrance and parking are free.

East Park Hull

Address: Holderness Rd, Hull HU8 8JU

A Bit About – This is Hull’s largest park with 130 acres of parkland. You can take a stroll around the park, there is a large playground, a water play area (currently under renovation), a free-to-visit animal education centre and a large lake with ducks you can feed. There are some additional activities where a small charge may apply.

The park is free to visit and parking is free.

Flamborough Head Flamborough

Address: Flamborough Head, Bridlington YO15 1AR

A Bit About – Flamborough Head is a stunning headland on the very outer tip of the coastal village of Flamborough. It is a beautiful place to visit with amazing coastal views with cliffs and nesting seabirds. The cliffs provide a great viewing vantage point and there are paths close to the edge. It does erode in places so do take care when visiting. The lighthouse is not free to visit.

Flamborough Head is free to visit. There is a small charge to park in a pay-and-display car park.

Flamborough – Choice of 4 beaches, Selwicks , North Landing , South Landing and Thornwick Bay

Address: Various, All beaches are located within Flamborough with different access points. Please see each individual post linked above for additional information.

A Bit About – Flamborough is a small sleepy seaside village. It hides 4 fabulous and beautiful beaches each with its own character. All beaches have steep access with varying levels of difficulty to get down. All are surrounded by high cliffs and are great for rock pooling. A couple of the beaches even have caves. Further information to be found in the 4 links above.

All beaches are free to visit. All have a pay and display car park. Dogs are permitted on these beaches all year round.

Fraisthorpe Beach near Bridlington

Address: Unnamed Rd, Bridlington, Wilsthorpe, Bridlington YO15 3QL

A Bit About – Fraisthorpe Beach is around a 10-minutes drive from Bridlington. There is direct beach access from the car park to the beach. You can actually see Bridlington but to walk there on the beach would take around an hour. There are many pillbox structures from WWII. It’s a nice stretch of beach and there is a cafe with toilets nearby.

The beach is free to visit. There is a small charge to park. Dogs are permitted on this beach all year round.

Hornsea beach

A Bit About – There is a lovely stretch of beach in the small seaside town of Hornsea. The beach is mostly sand and shingle. It is a popular beach for water sports and even surfing. There is a promenade along the beach plus some places to purchase fish and chips and a small amusement arcade.

There is plenty of parking close to the beach with public toilets dotted along. Dogs are not permitted on some sections of the beach from May until September. The beach is free to visit. The car parks close by are pay and display.

Humber Bridge Country Park near Hull

Address: Ferriby Rd, Hessle HU13 0HB

A Bit About – The park is around 48 acres in size and is located on the north side of the Humber Bridge, close to the Hessle foreshore. The park is set in woodland with open meadows and wildlife ponds. There are chalk cliffs that surround the park on three sides. There are a few different trails around the park with some sculptures and feeding stations for birds. The park can get quite muddy after rainfall.

The park is free to visit.

Millington Wood Pocklington

Address: YO42 ITZ

A Bit About – There is access for all route that takes you through the main woodland. However steep steps make it impossible for wheelchairs and pushchairs to access the high viewpoint. Picnic benches are available and the walk is around 1 mile long.

The woods are free to visit and there is a small on-site car park.

North Cave Wetlands Brough

Address: Dryham Ln, Brough HU15 2LY

A Bit About – A circular footpath runs around the perimeter of the original section of the reserve, part of which is surfaced and accessible to wheelchair users. There are four hides, three of which are accessible. This path is around 2km long.

The site is free to visit and there is free parking on Dryham Lane.

North Cliffe Wood Nature Reserve Market Weighton

Address: Sand Lane, Market Weighton, YO43 4XE

A Bit About – This is a lovely woodland nature reserve rich in wildlife. In spring, a lilac haze of bluebells stretches out beneath the vibrant green leaves of birch. The walk around the woods is around 1.2 miles.

It is free to visit, there is limited free parking in roadside laybys.

Pearson Park Hull

A Bit About – Pearson Park is a large park of about 120 acres. It still has its Victorian grandeur and it features an excellent play area and a conservatory greenhouse. The park was established in the early 1860s and it was the first public park in Hull. The park also has a wildlife garden that encourages wildlife to the park.

The park is free to visit and there is local free parking.

Pickering Park Hull

Address: Pickering Rd, Hull HU4 7AB

A Bit About – Pickering Park is an ideal spot for families. It has a toddler play area and a junior youth play area. Pickering Park has various play equipment including a trim trail and zip wire, outdoor exercise equipment, a rock garden, football pitches, a paddling pool, a sensory garden, and an 80eg fishing lake.

The park has an outdoor gym and a permanent orienteering route. Pickering Park provides a variety of physical activities and outdoor sports. It also has beautiful ornamental gardens and a wildlife pond.

The park is free to visit and I can find no information with regards to parking.

Pocklington Canal Pocklington

Address: Pocklington

A Bit About – The Pocklington Canal is a broad canal that runs for 9.5 miles through nine locks from the Canal Head near Pocklington to the River Derwent. There are three working locks. It is one of the finest canals for wildlife, with both national and international protection. It’s a lovely canal to go for a walk and explore Pocklington.

The canal is free to walk along. There may be a charge to park.

Spurn Point Nature Reserve near Kilnsea

Address: Spurn Discovery Centre Spurn Head, south of, Kilnsea HU12 0UH

A Bit About – Big skies and ever-changing wildlife make the evocative landscape of Spurn one of the Trust’s most iconic nature reserves. There are at least 3 miles of walking along the sandy point. It is unsafe to enter the water. Spurn has an extensive human history, leaving a legacy of fascinating but derelict buildings and hidden structures.

Spurn Point is free to visit. There is a small charge to park. Dogs are not permitted.

West Park Hull

Address: Walton Street, Hull, HU3 6JU

A Bit About – West Park is located next to the KCOM Stadium in Hull. It features a wildlife aviary, a children’s playground, an outdoor gym, a skatepark and outdoor table tennis as well as wide open green spaces. There is also a model railway and a paddling pool open in the summer months.

The playground has a nautical theme and the paddling pool has several dancing fountains rather than being a pool.

The pool is free to visit. There is local parking on the street.

Withernsea Beach Withernsea

A Bit About – Withernsea Beach stretches for a couple of miles and has a large expanse of sand and shingle. There is an attractive wide promenade that has been recently renovated. You can find many cafes, fish and chip shops and pubs. Sailing and windsurfing are popular and the beach is patrolled by lifeguards in the summer.

There are a few playgrounds in Withernsea plus a large entertainment centre with amusements, soft play, bowling abbey and cafe. There is also a leisure centre with a pool which has a 70 m water slide. Dogs are not permitted on some sections of the beach from May until September.

The beach is free to visit. The nearby car parks are pay and display.

NORTH YORKSHIRE Free Days Out

Kirkleatham museum (plus outdoors) kirkleatham.

Address: Kirkleatham, Redcar TS10 5NW

A Bit About – This is an 18th-century Queen Anne building with exhibits covering local history for the Borough of Redcar and Cleveland. The museum has a treasure trove of artefacts set out across three floors. There are some stunning Anglo-Saxon finds from Northern England plus maritime and industrial heritage exhibitions.

You can also walk around the museum’s grounds where you will find a state-of-the-art play area surrounded by picnic tables and a maze that kids will love to play in.

The museum is free to visit. There is free parking on-site.

National Railway Museum York

Address: Leeman Rd, York YO26 4XJ

A Bit About – Located near York railway station is one of the UK’s largest railway museums. It tells the story of rail and transport in Britain and its impact on society. There is a great hall full of engines and carriages, some of which you can look inside.

There is a small under-5 play area, another exhibition hall with more carriages and outdoor miniature railway train rides for a small fee.

The museum is free to visit. They have a car park but it costs an expensive £10 to park. We prefer to take the park and ride in which is great value for money.

OUTDOORS Free Things to do

Aysgarth falls aysgarth.

Address: Aysgarth, Yorkshire Dales National Park

A Bit About – Aysgarth Falls are three-stepped waterfalls in Aysgarth. They have been a tourist attraction for over 200 years and are steeped in history. There is a local nature reserve alongside the falls with several easy paths winding through it.

There is a National Park Centre, cafe and car park at Aysgarth so it is easy to visit. You can also park at Bolton Castle and walk to the falls from there.

The falls are free to visit. There is a small charge to park.

Barlow Common Nature Reserve Near Selby

Address: Unnamed Road, YO8 8EZ

A Bit About – There are unsurfaced paths around the reserve with some boardwalks. A wildlife trail leads visitors around a woodland trail with 25 posts to find. With habitats spanning from wetland and wildflower meadows to mature woodland. The circular walk is around 1.5 miles.

The nature reserve is free to visit. Parking is available at the main entrance of the reserve.

Bolton Abbey near Skipton

Address: 6EX, B6160, Skipton

A Bit About – Bolton Abbey boasts over 80 miles of footpaths and you can explore the ruins of the abbey. When the river isn’t flowing too fast there are stepping stones you can cross (all 60 of them). There is a large beach area, popular with families.

Plus a wooden galleon play area and a fun wellies walk for the kids. One of the best walks is the Valley of Desolation and Simon’s Seat where you will be rewarded with a beautiful waterfall and equally beautiful views.

Bolton Abbey is free to visit. There is a charge per car to park.

Brimham Rocks northwest of Harrogate

Address: Brimham Moor Road, Summerbridge, Harrogate HG3 4DW

A Bit About – Brimham Rocks is an amazing collection of natural rock formations in Nidderdale. The rocks were formed millions of years ago and you can explore and climb the rocks as much or as little as you want. Kids will enjoy spotting the ones that have been named after something.

It is free to visit. Members of the National Trust don’t have to pay to park, for non-members, there is a small parking charge.

Byland Abbey Near York

Address: 65, Byland Abbey, York YO61 4BD

A Bit About – The Abbey is maintained by English Heritage and it is free for all to visit. It is a great place to stop off for a look around. It was once one of the greatest monasteries in England and like all abbeys, it is now mostly ruined but there are still some walls that remain today which you can explore.

The Abbey is free to visit. There is a small car park and other parking nearby. Parking is free.

Cayton Bay Beach near Scarborough

Address: Cayton, Scarborough YO11 3NR

A Bit About – This is a stunningly beautiful beach just a short drive from Scarborough. The walk down to the beach is steep but worth it. There are a few pillboxes from WWII on the beach, if the tide is out enough there is fantastic rock pooling and if you head north on the beach it is even more beautiful as the forest meets the beach. There are some public toilets a short walk from the centre of the beach. You can also go for a walk in the woods.

The beach is free to visit. There is free but limited parking on the road. You can park in the Scarborough Surf School car park for a small charge. Dogs are permitted all year round.

Cod Beck Reservoir near Northallerton

Address: Northallerton DL6 3AL

A Bit About – This pretty reservoir is on the western edge of the North York Moors. It’s a popular beauty spot with lovely waters surrounded by attractive woodland and moorland scenery. You can follow the circular walking trail around the reservoir. It runs for roughly 1.5 miles.

It is free to visit and park.

Dalby Forest Near Pickering

Address: Dalby Forest Dr, Low Dalby, Pickering YO18 7LT

A Bit About – The forest has a number of trails and they usually have a special kid’s themed trail. There are 13 walking trails, 6 cycling and 4 running. They also have a Gruffalo orienteering trail. There is a play area with a shallow stream at the bottom perfect for paddling. Plus you could have a go at Go Ape (there is a cost involved).

The forest is free to visit. There is a charge to park.

Druids Temple Masham

Address: Knowle Lane, Ripon HG4 4JZ

A Bit About – You can walk into the woods surrounding the Druid’s Temple. The site contains the main temple along with numerous stone formations dotted around the woodland. It is a short walk around one of Yorkshire’s most interesting follies. It is believed to have been built in the late 1700s by William Danby.

The site and the car park are free although parking is very limited.

Falling Foss Waterfall Near Whitby

Address: Midge Hall, Whitby, YO22 5JD

A Bit About – This is a really idyllic spot. There is the beautiful outdoor Falling Foss tea room where you can eat some fantastic homemade scones. This is above the waterfall. You can walk down but it’s not easy.

You can see the waterfall from a viewpoint at the top and next to the tea room there is a pretty stream where there are some shallow places to paddle. The tea room has a small play area for guests.

It is free to visit. There is a small charge to park.

Filey Beach Filey

A Bit About – Filey has one long stretch of beach although most of it is covered at high tide so do check before you visit. There is sand on the beach often with large deposits of pebbles. There is a promenade alongside the beach which is free of traffic.

This has a crazy golf course and is next to a small area with amusements, cafes and fish and chips. You can also find a small paddling pool near the south end of the beach. Dogs are not permitted on some sections of the beach from May until September.

The beach is free to visit. There is some on-street parking which is pay and display. There is a large car park near Glen Gardens which is also pay and display and a longer walk to the beach (with a hill).

Filey Brigg Filey

A Bit About – At the northern end of Filey, you will find Filey Brigg. It is a long narrow peninsula with steep cliffs at 20 metres high. There is a country park with a playground next to the car park and many people visit here to walk along the cliff-top. It has some fantastic views and there are the remains of a Roman signal station. There are toilets, a cafe and a mini-golf.

Filey Brigg is free to visit. There is a small charge to park.

Filey Dams Nature Reserve Near Filey

Address: 5 Barden Place, Filey, YO14 0DR

A Bit About – This is the last remaining freshwater marsh of any size in the area. It is a great place to see migratory birds with bird hides dotted around. There are permissive paths and a boardwalk. The reserve is 6 hectares in size. The best times to visit are June to September.

The reserve is free to visit and there is a free car park.

Flatts Lane Country Park Near Middlesborough

Address: Flatts Ln, Middlesbrough TS6 0NN

A Bit About – The park has woodland walks, panoramic views, a sculpture trail and an adventure play area. Plus a trim trail, arboretum and pond platforms. There is a cafe. Cyclists and horse riders are welcome but must keep to the marked bridleways.

The country park is free to visit and parking is also free.

Grass Wood Nature Reserve Grassington

Address: Grass Wood Ln, Grassington, Skipton BD23 5NE

A Bit About – Grass Wood is one of the largest areas of broadleaved woodland in the Dales. It is a wildlife-rich woodland occupying an area of carboniferous limestone on the north side of Wharfedale. There is a network of public footpaths and permissive paths through the woodland.

Free to visit with a free car park accessed from Grass Wood Lane.

Grimwith Reservoir Skipton

Address: Skipton BD23 5ED

A Bit About – Grimwith Reservoir provides stunning views of the adjacent moors, the valley and the lower Yorkshire Dales. The walk is 4.5 miles long and features a mostly well-surfaced path with a few unsurfaced areas which can be muddy.

It is free to visit and free to park.

Guisborough Forest and Walkway Guisborough

Address: 8 Old Station Cottages, Pinchinthorpe, Guisborough TS14 8HD

A Bit About – Situated on the northern edge of the National Park. On-site facilities include two play areas, a trim trail to challenge you, a sculpture trail, waymarked circular walks, bike trails and an orienteering course. The trail is 2.5 miles in length.

Hackfall Woods Near Ripon

Address: Ripon, HG4 3DE

A Bit About – This ancient woodland has been restored to its former glory and boasts special features such as grottos and glades, rustic temples and waterfalls. As well as carpets of bluebells in spring and an impressive number of woodland birds. The main walking route is 1 mile long.

It is free to visit and limited free parking is available.

Hayburn Wyke Beach and Woodlands Near Scarborough

Address: Scarborough YO13 0HA

A Bit About – If you are visiting the Hayburn Wyke Inn you can park in their car park to then walk through the woodlands and down to the Hayburn Wyke beach to see the waterfall. The bay here is made up of rocks and small boulders and if you’re lucky you may even spot a fossil. It is also accessed just off the popular Cleveland Way coastal walking route via the Cinder Track which is a disused railway track. Dogs are permitted all year round.

The beach is free to visit. There is parking a short walk away and charges apply.

Homestead Park York

Address: The Homestead, 40 Water End, York YO30 6WP

A Bit About – Homestead Park is a pretty 14-acre garden in Clifton, York just 1.5 miles west of the city centre. There is pedestrian access from Water End and Shipton Road. There is a large children’s playground within the park and it’s a nice place to enjoy a walk with some spectacular seasonal floral displays.

The park is free to visit. There is a small car park at the Shipton Road entrance.

Knaresborough

A Bit About – There is a pretty riverside walk in Knaresborough. The River Nidd Walk starts at the river by the castle where you head north and then west along the river until you come to High Bridge. Cross to the other side and you can follow footpaths through the woodland on the southern side of the water.

You will eventually come to a footbridge where you can cross to Conyngham Hall. The grounds are free to visit with 3 different trails to follow. There is crazy golf for a small fee. You can then follow the northern side of the river back to the castle. In Knaresborough, there is a free-to-use paddling pool and if you want to spend any money you could go boating on the river or visit Mother Shipton’s Cave.

There are a few car parks to choose from in Knaresborough. One is free although you are not always guaranteed a space. There are also pay and display car parks.

Malham Cove Malham

Address: Malham, Skipton BD23 4DJ

A Bit About – Malham Cove is a huge curving amphitheatre-shaped cliff formation of limestone rock. The vertical face is around 260 feet high. The cove looks out over the village of Malham and has been attracting visitors for centuries. There is a good footpath from the road to the foot of the cove. There are steps that lead up to the top of the cove.

Access all year round. There is a pay and display car park a short walk away in the village.

Mallyan Spout Waterfall Goathland

Address: Goathland, Whitby YO22 5AN (this is the address of the hotel where you access the path down to the waterfall, parking is only permitted here if you are eating at or staying at the hotel) For the public car park please head into the village.

A Bit About – Mallyan Spout waterfall is really beautiful. It’s not a full cascading waterfall, more a soft flow of fine water down the hillside. It’s idyllic with all the lush vegetation and the cascades of water to the right of the waterfall. It is the tallest waterfall in the North Yorkshire Moors.

The walk to it is downhill so you will have a relatively steep walk back up again. Access isn’t easy as you have to cross over some uneven and large boulders but this is only for a short part of the walk. You can not see the waterfall without a bit of boulder clambering.

The waterfall is free to visit. There is a pay and display car park in the village which is a short walk away.

Danby Lodge National Park Centre Near Whitby

Address: Lodge Ln, Whitby YO21 2NB

A Bit About – This is a historic visitor centre set in an idyllic spot on the banks of the River Esk, near Danby. You will see moorland, woodland, farmland, historic buildings and all that makes this national park so glorious. There are a number of walks to enjoy with an outdoor play area. There are interactive displays in the centre and an indoor climbing wall plus a cafe and toilets. You can also take part in child-friendly trails.

The centre and surrounding countryside are free to visit. There is a pay and display car park.

Nidd Falls and Scar House Reservoir Near Lofthouse

Address: Lofthouse or Scar House Reservoir, Unnamed Road, Lofthouse, Harrogate HG3 5SW

A Bit About – Nidd Falls is a delightful waterfall on the River Nidd just upstream from Lofthouse. It is easily accessible from either the public footpath from Lofthouse or the access road to Scar House Reservoir. Bizarrely the waterfall is not named on the OS map.

Between Lofthouse and Nidd Falls, there is also a nice series of small waterfalls just above the footbridge crossing the Nidd. Scar House Reservoir is a stunning reservoir built in the 1930s. You can walk the edge of Nidderdale’s most famous reservoir, crossing the immense Scar House Dam with its teetering viewing platform (not for vertigo sufferers) and pass through the lost village of Lodge.

The falls and the reservoir are free to visit. There may be a charge to park depending on where you decide to access the falls and/or reservoir.

North Yorkshire Water Park Near Scarborough

Address: Long Causeway Rd, Wykeham, Lakes YO13 9QU

A Bit About – The water park has a lovely circular walk around the large lake. We visited last year and they have laid gravel around most of the pathway. It’s a great place to spot wildlife and if you look closely you may spot literally hundreds of caterpillars. They aren’t all year round but we’ve not seen anything like it before. The walk took us around an hour with a few stop-offs to watch people enjoying watersports on the lake.

It is free to visit and free to park. Lake activities have a fee.

Pannet Park Whitby (and indoors)

Address: Whitby YO21 1RE

A Bit About – This is a public green space high up in the town of Whitby close to the coast. There are themed gardens, a modern adventure play area for the kids and a local history museum. It has some stunning views and it is a lovely and peaceful park. In the museum, you can explore collections of local fossils, natural history, model ships, carved jet, costumes and social history.

The museum and the park are free to visit. There may be free street parking close by although we usually park in the local pay and display leisure centre car park.

Peasholm Park Scarborough

Address: North Bay, Scarborough YO12 7TR

A Bit About – Peasholm Park, Scarborough originally opened in 1912 and it is an oriental=themed municipal park. It is located at the north end of Scarborough just a short walk from the beach. There is an island in the middle of the main lake with a pagoda and a large cascade waterfall.

You can hire a pedalo to go around the lake (a small charge applies). There are plenty of geese and ducks so make sure you take some duck food and there are even tame squirrels that you can feed. The park also has a couple of putting greens.

It is free to visit the park. There is a small pay and display car park near the north entrance.

Redcar Beach Redcar

A Bit About – The beach at Redcar has a large expanse of sand which means there is plenty of room even on a busy day. It is a popular spot for water sports such as surfing and windsurfing. Most of the beach is backed by sand dunes and although not as pretty to look at with a backdrop of steelworks it is a popular family beach.

The seafront has an esplanade with a nearby museum, amusements and fish and chips. The beach is free to visit. Most of the parking is pay and display. Dogs are not permitted on some sections of the beach from May until September.

Robin Hoods Bay

A Bit About – Robin Hood’s Bay is a beautiful seaside fishing village set on a steep hill. You have to park in one of the two public car parks at the top of the hill and walk down the cobbled streets. It is a lovely place to visit and you will feel like you have stepped back in time. There are a few shops and places to eat. The beach is vast with big sandy stretches and rock pools when the tide is out.

Robin Hood’s Bay is free to access all year round. There are two pay and display car parks which can be very busy. Dogs are permitted on the beach all year round.

Roseberry Topping Near Middlesborough

Address: Middlesbrough TS9 6QS

A Bit About – Roseberry Topping is a distinctive hill in North Yorkshire. Its summit has a half-cone shape with a jagged cliff. There are three routes to the top with the shortest walk being around 1.3 miles which can be done in around an hour (there and back).

It can get steep in parts so it is recommended for those with a reasonable level of fitness. The walk that starts in the public car park is the best walk for families. There is a car park with toilets at Newton under Roseberry.

Rowntree Park York

Address: Terry Avenue, Micklegate, YO23 1JQ

A Bit About – The park was a gift to the City of York by Messrs Rowntree and Co in 1921 and it is a memorial to the Cocoa Works staff that fell and suffered during WWI. The park is a short walk from the city centre situated by the River Ouse. The 30-acre park has undergone a £1.8 million refurbishment restoring it to its original splendour.

There is an ornamental lake with ducks and geese. Plus 6 tennis courts, a skate park, basketball court, toilets and a well-equipped children’s play area.

The park is free to visit. The park’s car park is adjacent to the park on Terry Avenue and there is a small charge to park.

Runswick Bay

A Bit About – Runswick Bay is located north of the popular seaside resort of Whitby and just a short drive south of Staithes. The beach is breathtakingly beautiful. Its beauty comes not just from its size and its setting but from how unspoilt this sleepy former fishing village is. I truly hope that despite its award it won’t change and it won’t become overcrowded.

Although the beach is big enough to accommodate lots of people its car parking doesn’t so get there early. There is a general lack of facilities with limited toilets and a small hotel which serves food and drinks. The views of the village once you are down on the beach are simply idyllic. There is a launching area with lots of canoes and a few small boats. The red-roofed houses are full of character and they line the hill on a number of different levels. Dogs are permitted all year round.

The beach is accessible all year round. Please pay attention to tide times before visiting. There are two pay and display car parks.

Saltburn-by-the-sea beach

A Bit About – Saltburn-by-the-sea is one of North Yorkshire’s prettiest seaside resorts. It is a lot smaller than Scarborough and Whitby but there’s still plenty to see and do and the beach is well worth spending some time on. At high tide, there is just a small section of beach accessible on foot but at low tide, there is a vast expanse of golden sandy beach.

The highlight of the town is the funicular railway from 1884. It has stained glass windows and offers rides from the top of the town with its many restaurants down to the beach and its tourist attractions (small charge). There is also a pier on the beach with an amusement arcade. Dogs are not permitted on some sections of the beach from May until September.

The beach is accessible all year round. The car parks closer to the beach are pay and display.

Scarborough North and South Beach

A Bit About – Scarborough has two beaches, one at the north end and one at the south. The beach at the north is the largest although both will only have a small area of sand at high tide. In the south, the beach is next to the main seafront road where you will find amusements and many places to eat.

There is also a pretty harbour where you can enjoy crabbing. The north beach is great for rock pooling especially close to the beach huts. Dogs are not permitted on some sections of the beach from May until September.

The beaches are free to visit. There is a variety of pay and display parking near both beaches although these spaces can fill up fast on busier days.

Skipton Castle Woods Skipton

Address: Access is via three pedestrian entrances; Mill Bridge, The Bailey and Short Lee Lane., Skipton BD23 1AW

A Bit About – Hidden behind one of Britain’s most popular medieval castles is the Woodland Trusts’s, Skipton Castle Woods. It is a rare ancient woodland habitat straight off the high street with a fascinating history that dates back a thousand years.

There is a modern version of a treasure hunt in the woods with six hidden boxes to find. Each contains a notepad for you to leave a message and an ink pad so you can mark your stamp sheet. (link above). The woods are around 36 acres in size and there is a 3km circular walk.

The woods are free to visit. There are three pay and display car parks nearby.

A Bit About – Staithes is a pretty seaside fishing village. Like Robin Hood’s Bay, you have to park in the public car park at the top and walk down the steep cobbled road to the main village below. It was once one of the largest fishing ports in the North East now made famous by the CBeebies program Old Jack’s Boat.

The beach is great for a bit of fossil hunting and rock pooling. There are public toilets at the top and the bottom of the hill. Dogs are permitted all year round.

The village and beach are accessible all year round. There is a charge to park in the council car park at the top.

Staveley Nature Reserve Staveley

Address: Minskip Rd, Boroughbridge, Staveley, Knaresborough HG5 9LQ

A Bit About – This is a superb wetland site lying close to the River Tutt. The site is around 79 hectares in size and there is a large network of surfaced and unsurfaced public and permissive paths.

The entrance is free. There is a small car park just outside the village.

Sutton Bank National Park Sutton Bank

Address: Sutton Bank, Thirsk YO7 2EH

A Bit About – This park has a good range of easy walking routes. There is also a choice of cycle tracks. There is a relatively new visitor centre with a hands-on Window on the Park exhibition.

It is free to visit, there is a small charge to park.

Swinsty Reservoir near Harrogate

Address: Fewston Reservoir car park, Near Harrogate, LS21 2NP

A Bit About – This reservoir nestles in the stunning Washburn Valley and provides breathtaking views across the water and the surrounding landscape. The main walk is roughly 3 miles long.

It is free to visit with free parking.

Valley Gardens Harrogate

Address: Valley Dr, Harrogate HG1 2SZ

A Bit About – The Valley Gardens in Harrogate are a popular award-winning family-friendly park located in the heart of the town in North Yorkshire. It has colourful seasonal flower displays, a modern kid’s playground and an Art Deco pavilion. The gardens are set within 17 acres of English Heritage Grade II listed parkland and feature some lovely themed gardens.

If you want to extend your visit the adjacent Pinewoods is a further 96 acres of woodland with footpaths that lead to RHS Harlow Carr. There is a fantastic and modern adventure playground for kids with plenty to climb and swing on. There is even a paddling pool perfect for warm summer days.

The park is free to visit. Free parking is available on Valley Drive or on Cornwall Road. There are maximum stay restrictions at the lower end of these roads but not further up the hill.

Wharram Percy Deserted Medieval Village Near Malton

Address: Unnamed Road, Malton, YO17 9TD

A Bit About – This is one of the largest and best-preserved yet deserted medieval villages in the UK. Located in the countryside near Malton. Wharram Percy is not a huge site but with the 3/4 mile walk down to the village from the car park you can certainly spend a good one to two hours there.

There is an abandoned farm, a largely ruined church and trace outlines of lost houses on a grassy plateau. There are no facilities and parking is limited.

It is free to visit. For non-members of English Heritage, there may be a small charge to park.

Wheldrake Woods York

Address: York, YO19 6BG

A Bit About – This is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of York and stretch your legs with a woodland walk. With an abundance of wildlife, a mixture of trees and a network of informal paths. Starting from Broad Highway car park you can choose to stay on the main path or for the more adventurous, explore further by branching off on smaller trails.

It is free to visit and there is free parking.

Whitby Beach – Sandsend

A Bit About – The beach at Whitby stretches on for some distance with stretches of golden sand. The beach at Whitby starts to the left of the northern pier. As you leave the area of Whitby the beach then becomes Sandsend. There are plenty of rock pools at low tide and you might even spot some of the famous Whitby jet which is a precious black stone.

There are more facilities the closer you get to Whitby and there is a paddling pool plus donkey rides on the beach. Dogs are not permitted on some sections of the beach from May until September.

The beaches are accessible all year round. There are pay and display car parks near the beaches.

York City Walls York

Address: York City Centre

A Bit About – York’s City Walls are open to walk from about 8 a.m. until dusk daily. It comprises 3.4km of surviving masonry. They are the longest town walls in England. A walk takes around 2 hours to walk and there is a one-way system in place.

The walls are free to walk. There are a number of pay and display car parks nearby or you could use one of the park and rides.

SOUTH YORKSHIRE Free Days Out

Indoors free things to do, bishops house and meersbrook park (outdoors) sheffield.

Address: Norton Lees Ln, Meersbrook, Sheffield S8 9BE

A Bit About – Bishop’s House is located approximately two miles south of the centre of Sheffield by the top entrance to Meersbrook Park. It is steeped in history and full of charm and is Sheffield’s best-preserved timber-framed building. It is open as a museum and hosts regular events. The park itself has stunning views and a walled garden.

There is a playground and other facilities in the park including a bowling green, skate bowl, multi-use games area and an all-weather football pitch.

There is free entry to the museum. It is usually open at weekends. The park is open all year round. There is a car park in the park and there may be a charge to park.

Boston Castle and Park Rotherham

Address: 33 Boston Castle Grove, Rotherham S60 2BA

A Bit About – At Boston Castle, you can find all about the Earl of Effingham and the castle building. It is now a small visitor attraction with an interactive touch screen, children’s costumes and games. There is also access on request to a Roof Top viewing platform. The park itself covers just over eight hectares and at the side of the park is Canklow Woods, an ancient woodland area. The park has an attractive garden area.

The castle and park are free to visit. There is an on-site car park (I can not confirm that this is free to park in).

Danum Museum and Art Gallery Doncaster

Address: Waterdale, Doncaster DN1 3BZ

A Bit About – Doncaster Museum is full of unique and interesting items charting the history of the borough from the Ice Age to the 21st century. From Romans to railways and everything in between, there’s always something new to discover.

Entrance is free.

Experience Barnsley Museum and Discovery Centre Barnsley

Address: Town Hall, Church St, Barnsley S70 2TA

A Bit About – Experience Barnsley Museum and Discovery Centre is dedicated to the history and people of the borough. It is an inspiring place for all the family to visit. There is lots of fun to be had in the interactive galleries and the Discovery Centre holds priceless treasures.

The museum is free to visit. There are pay and display car parks nearby.

Sheffield Winter Garden Sheffield

Address: 90 Surrey St, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield S1 2LH

A Bit About – The Sheffield Winter Garden is located in the city centre of Sheffield. It is one of the largest temperate glasshouses to be built in the UK during the last hundred years and it is the largest urban glasshouse anywhere in Europe. It is home to more than 2,000 plants from all around the world. Next to the Peace Gardens and the Millenium Galleries, it is a unique experience in the city centre.

The winter garden is free to visit. Parking would be by pay and display.

Weston Park Museum Sheffield

Address: Western Bank, Sheffield S10 2TP

A Bit About – This museum is home to a number of exhibits. There are both permanent and visiting exhibitions. It is one mile west of the city centre and it is Sheffield’s largest museum. It is an award-winning family-friendly museum full of treasures. The museum has interactive displays and the nearby park also has a playground. There is plenty there to keep children entertained.

The museum is free to visit. There is no designated parking but there is a pay and display car park nearby.

OUTDOORS Free Things To Do

Cannon hall museum and gardens (and indoors).

Address: Bark House Ln, Cawthorne, Barnsley S75 4AT

A Bit About – Cannon Hall is a stunning Georgian country house museum set in 70 acres of historic parkland and beautifully landscaped gardens. It is an idyllic place for a relaxing walk, family outing or picnic in the park. As well as the museum in the hall there is also a play area in the gardens.

The museum and grounds are free to visit. There is a small charge to park.

Clifton Park and Museum (and indoors) Rotherham

Address: Clifton Ln, Rotherham S65 2AA

A Bit About – Clifton Park Museum is an exciting modern museum that takes you through Rotherham’s rich history. You will encounter the weird and wonderful as you discover the remarkable collections and exhibits. The park has gardens to relax in, a large play park, a splash area with fountains and mini-golf. Plus rides, a land train, a sandpit and more. Some of the facilities have a small charge such as the mini-golf and the rides.

The park is free to visit. There is a small charge to park with a number of car parks to choose from.

Cusworth Hall, Museum and Park (and indoors) Doncaster

Address: Cusworth Ln, Doncaster DN5 7TU

A Bit About – The hall was built in the mid-18th century and today it houses a fascinating museum documenting the daily lives of people in Doncaster from the 18th century to the present day. You can step inside the great kitchen and there are many exhibition rooms to look around. The historic parkland is a lovely place for a walk. There is a playground and accessible paths.

The park and museum are free to visit. There is a charge to park.

Damflask Reservoir Near Low Bradfield

Address: Loxley Village, near the village of Low Bradfield

A Bit About – Damflask is a 47-hectare area of open water which is popular for angling and water sports. The perimeter of the reservoir is great for walking especially since enhancements to the 3 1/4 mile circular route were completed.

It is free to visit and parking is free.

Dearne Valley Country Park Barnsley

Address: 191 Pontefract Rd, Barnsley S71 1HS

A Bit About – This is a tree-lined riverfront site with hiking and biking trails. Plus bird watching, a skate park and a playground. This wildlife haven is less than a mile from Barnsley town centre. The country park extends for two miles and is around 80 hectares in size. There is an extensive network of paths.

The park is free to visit and parking is also free.

Eccleshall Woods Sheffield

Address: Access from Abbey Lane/Cow Lane/Abbeydale Road, Sheffield S8 OBJ

A Bit About – Ecclesall Woods is located in Sheffield’s southwestern corner, near the Peak District National Park border. The Woods are actually three separate woodlands physically divided by roads. Whirlowdale Road runs between Woods 1 and 2, and Wood 3 – the largest – lies to the west of Abbey Lane. 

Together they cover nearly 140 hectares (350 acres) of gently sloping land that is crisscrossed by 15km of public footpaths and bridleways. There are lots of streams and bridges within the woodland.

It is free to visit. There is a small free parking area.

Endcliffe Park Sheffield

Address: Rustlings Rd, Sheffield S11 7AB

A Bit About – Endcliffe Park is a large park in the city of Sheffield. The park was opened in 1887 to commemorate the Jubilee of Queen Victoria. In the summer there are rides for kids which there is a small charge to go on. The park has a playground and there are often trails available around the park. There are woodlands you can explore.

The park is free to visit, with a small charge for rides. There is a charge to park.

Forge Dam Park Sheffield

Address: 9 Whiteley Ln, Sheffield S10 4GL

A Bit About – Near Endcliffe Park you will find Forge Dam Park. If you want to walk between the two it is an approximate 2-mile walk. There is a playground and it’s a great place for kids to paddle in the water. There are usually plenty of ducks so make sure you take some duck-friendly food.

The park is free to visit. Car parking is available at the end of Brookhouse Hill and on Whiteley Lane.

Graves Park Sheffield

Address: Hemsworth Rd, Sheffield S8 8LJ

A Bit About – Graves Park is Sheffield’s biggest park located in the southwest of the city. The park has many facilities including 2 playgrounds, an animal farm and sporting facilities. Plus 9 hole pitch and putt, woodland, nature trails and a fishing lake.

There may be a small charge to use some of the facilities. The animal farm is home to some rare breeds of animals including pigs, sheep, donkeys, goats and more.

The park, animal farm and most facilities are free. The park has two car parking areas the main one being located at the Buntings Nook entrance. There is a small charge to park.

Heeley City Farm Heeley, Sheffield

Address: Richards Rd, Heeley, Sheffield S2 3DT

A Bit About – This is a friendly farm with an environmental visitor centre. You can meet their friendly animals and there is a playground for children under the age of 8. The farm hosts annual events and often has child-friendly activities. Animals include goats, birds, pigs, sheep and more.

The farm is free to visit. It does not have a car park but it is surrounded by roads that you can park on.

Highfield Adventure Playground Nether Edge, Sheffield

Address: Crowther Pl, Nether Edge, Sheffield S7 1BJ

A Bit About – Children and young people love the playground because of its interesting and exciting spaces and play equipment. There is sand play, a tunnel slide, a swing and a water pump. It provides a safe place for children to play with toilets and refreshments. Staff provide a range of activities for children including crafts, cooking and games.

The playground is free to visit. It has a varied opening timetable. If anyone can provide me with information with regards to parking please contact me via Facebook.

Hillsborough Park Sheffield

Address: Parkside Rd, Sheffield S6 2AB

A Bit About – Hillsborough Park is a large parkland area in Hillsborough, Sheffield. It is situated three miles northwest of the city centre. The park features sports facilities, a children’s playground and a walled garden.

Recent work has included rebuilding and extending the pavilion, extending the playground and creating a figure-of-eight jogging track within the park. The walled garden dates back to 1779, it is a hidden gem with fairy houses and flowers. The park also has a duck pond so make sure you take some duck-friendly food.

Journey to Hidden Places Sheffield

Address: ​Start:  First Start Children’s Centre, 441 Firth Park Road, S5 6HH.

A Bit About – The route known as A Journey to Hidden Places is the result of a project that took place in the suburb between 2008 and 2011 – a collaboration between artists and local people, from a rich variety of cultural backgrounds, that created a trail of permanent public artworks in the area.

You can wander through ancient Bluebell woods, find the lost gateway, discover an Iron Age hill fort with superb views over the Don Valley and search for 18 fascinating pieces of creative art, old and new, hidden around Firth Park and Wincobank. It is 4.8 miles in length so you may want to attempt the trail over a couple of days and access it from different points.

The trail is free. There is a range of parking at different points for the trail.

Langsett Reservoir near Barnsley

Address: Langsett Barn Car Park, S36 4GY

A Bit About – This reservoir sits at the northeastern edge of the Peak District National Park less than 5 miles southwest of Penistone. It has one of the largest earth embankments in the UK. The shorter walk takes around 2.5 hours.

Locke Park Barnsley

Address: Keresforth Hall Rd, Barnsley S70 6NF

A Bit About – Locke Park is a 47-acre public open space and one of the largest outdoor green spaces in Barnsley. The park is just 1 mile from the town centre and has gardens, trees and open spaces. There is a historic tower and bandstand plus a play area. They have also been busy painting murals from the films Labyrinth and Dark Crystal on their walls plus there is a fairy garden.

The park is free to visit. There is a large free car park.

Longshaw Estate near Sheffield

Address: Longshaw, Sheffield, S11 7TZ

A Bit About – Longshaw is covered with a maze of footpaths. They have three waymarked walks all starting from outside the visitor centre tea room. You can pick up a leaflet or follow the coloured arrows. Walks range from around 1.5 miles to 3 miles.

It is free to visit. National Trust members can park for free. For Non-members, there is a small charge to park.

Millhouses Park Sheffield

Address: Abbeydale Rd S, Sheffield S17 3LA

A Bit About – Millhouses Park is a public urban park located in the Millhouses area of Sheffield. It is approximately 13 hectares in size and there is plenty to do at the park. Facilities include a purpose-built skate park with ramps, rails and kerbs. making it perfect for skaters bikers & rollerbladers alike. There is a boating lake with a range of boats suitable for all (charges apply).

Plus some well-kept gardens, an adventure-style playground with balance beams, chains and climbing bars, a state-of-the-art climbing wall for 4-11 year-olds and a zip wire. There are pony rides in the summer and sports facilities.

The park is free to visit. There may be a small charge for some of the activities.

Norfolk Heritage Park Sheffield

Address: Guildford Ave, Sheffield S2 2PL

A Bit About – The park is one of the oldest in the country. It dates back to Victorian times and is set within an English Heritage Grade 2 star listed landscape. It is located close to the centre of Sheffield. Facilities include a play area with swings, a trampoline, a toddler bike track with road markings and earth mounds. Plus a woodland play area and sports facilities.

The park is free to visit and there is a free car park off Guildford Avenue.

Pot House Hamlet Garden Centre and Petting Farm Barnsley

Address: Barnsley Rd, Silkstone, Barnsley S75 4JU

A Bit About – Pot House Hamlet has a cafe and plant nursery. It also has a free-to-visit petting farm where you can get up close to its animals and stroke/feed them. Their animals are very friendly You can extend your visit by taking a walk down the ancient wagonway alongside Silkstone Beck. The cafe also often has craft sessions for kids with a small outdoor play area for toddlers.

Free to visit. There is a free car park.

Rivelin Valley Nature Trail Near Sheffield

Address: Starts Malin Bridge, Rivelin Valley, Sheffield, S6 5FG

A Bit About – The nature trail runs along the side of the rushing river which is surrounded by attractive woodland. Along the way, you’ll pass a series of wiers and little waterfalls. The walk starts at the car park off the Rivelin Valley road and picks up the waterside trail to the pretty Rivelin Park. The park has a cafe, toilets and a play area. The trail is 2.5 miles long (not circular).

The trail is free and there is a range of charged and free parking in the area.

Rother Valley Country Park Rotherham

Address: Mansfield Rd, Sheffield S26 5PQ

A Bit About – The park is close to Rotherham’s border with Sheffield and Derbyshire. It covers 740 acres and has four artificial lakes, recreational activities and nature reserves. The park has plenty of open space to play games, walk, cycle, visit the play area, ride on the miniature train (small charge), feed the birds and see the animals at the small farm. For a fee, there are watersports on one of the lakes.

Sandall Park Doncaster

Address: 43 Sandalwood Cl, Doncaster DN2 5DW

A Bit About – Sandall Park is one of the largest parks in Doncaster. It is home to beautiful scenery, a variety of facilities and it has been awarded the Green Flag award for parks for quite a few years. There are places to play including toddler and junior play areas with a zip-wire and climbing frame plus playing fields and a new woodland adventure play area.

There is a range of sports facilities including outdoor gym equipment. The park has picnic areas and a large lake so make sure you take some bird-friendly food.

The park is free to visit. There is parking nearby.

Sheffield Botanical Gardens Sheffield

Address: Clarkehouse Rd, Broomhall, Sheffield S10 2LN

A Bit About – The Sheffield Botanical Gardens are situated off Ecclesall Road in Sheffield. It has around 5,000 species of plants set in 19 acres of land. The gardens were designed by Robert Marnock and were first opened in 1836. The gardens are listed by English Heritage as a Grade II site of special historic and architectural interest.

The Grade 2 pavilions house a wonderful collection of plants from all around the world. Several winding paths take visitors on an exploration through their 18 different garden areas.

The gardens are free to visit. There is NO parking inside the Gardens. Parking is very limited on roads off Clarkehouse Road and near the Thompson Road entrance.

Sheffield Manor Lodge Sheffield

Address: 197 Manor Ln, Sheffield S2 1UJ

A Bit About – Known locally as Manor Castle this is a lodge built around 1506 in what then was a large deer park southeast of Sheffield. You can explore the story of the lodge including the intrigues and dramas of Mary, Queen of Scots’ time in captivity.

Through costume characters, self-led trails and guided tours. You can wander through a meadow haven and lose yourself in a lavender labyrinth. There are child-friendly nature trails and crafts, you can bring your own bucket and spade for fun in their giant sandpit or there is an adventure playground.

It is free to visit and there is free visitor parking.

Worsborough Mill Museum and Country Park (and indoors) Worsborough

Address: Worsbrough Bridge, Worsbrough, Barnsley S70 5LJ

A Bit About – The country park covers over 240 acres and holds local nature reserve status. The park’s 60-acre reservoir is a haven for wildlife and is open to anglers and bird watchers. The park has well-maintained footpaths and cycle paths. There is a range of walks and a children’s play area. When open you can also visit the mill museum.

Wyming Brook Nature Reserve Near Sheffield

Address: Sheffield S10 4QX

A Bit About – You can enjoy a waterside walk through this pretty nature reserve near Sheffield. The footpath takes you through peaceful woodland with a babbling brook, mossy crags, stone steps and wooden bridges. You can start your walk from the car park off Redmires Road just north of the lower reservoir and the Redmires woodland plantation. You then head north through the reserve to Rivelin Dams.

It is free to visit. There is a small car park.

WEST YORKSHIRE Free Days Out

Bagshaw museum and wilton park (and outdoors) batley.

Address: Wilton Park, Batley WF17 0AS

A Bit About – Bagshaw Museum is a former Victorian mill owner’s house set in 36 acres of parkland and ancient woodland. The museum displays a wide range of unusual and exciting collections from around the world, Displays include two local history galleries.

There is an atmospheric Egyptology gallery where dramatic lighting effects are used to recreate the interior of a tomb plus a Victorian seaside gallery with a Punch and Judy show. Plus a playground for young children, a lake, sports facilities, a cafe and a toilet.

The museum is free to visit and there is free parking.

Bankfield Museum Halifax

Address: Akroyd Park, Boothtown Rd, Halifax HX3 6HG

A Bit About – The museum’s displays cover local history, costumes, art, toys, military history and more. They also feature temporary exhibitions. The museum is located in a grade II listed historic house and tells the story of Halifax and Calderdale. The museum is set in the attractive surroundings of Akroyd Park.

The museum is free to visit and there is free on-site parking.

Bradford Industrial Museum Bradford

Address: 235 Moorside Rd, Bradford BD2 3HP

A Bit About – Moorside Mills was built around 1875 as a spinning mill. The mill is now home to an industrial museum with permanent displays of textile machinery, steam power, engineering, printing machinery and motor vehicles.

You can enjoy the splendour of Moorside House where the Mill Manager lives or visit the Mill-workers terraced houses dressed to reflect three different periods of time.

Castleford Museum Castleford

Address: Carlton St, Castleford WF10 1BB

A Bit About – Step back in time and discover what Castleford was like under Roman rule, celebrate the town’s rugby heritage and explore the works of local sculptor Henry Moore. The museum also has four changing displays and is located on the top floor of the original 1905 Carnegie Library.

The museum is free to visit. There is pay and display parking nearby.

Cliffe Castle Museum and Park (and outdoors) Keighley

Address: Keighley BD20 6LQ

A Bit About – Cliffe Castle was originally the home of Victorian millionaire and textile manufacturer Henry Isaac Butterfield. The castle gardens have been turned into a grand public park and the castle was remodelled to become a free museum. In recent years Cliffe Castle has undergone a major restoration. Visitors can see sparkling Victorian rooms, furniture, paintings and decorative art.

There are special galleries dealing with natural history, archaeology and social history. Things to see in the gardens include marble fountains, a pond, ornamental Victorian rockwork, glasshouses and terraces plus a popular children’s play area.

The museum and park are free to visit. There is a car park nearby.

Colne Valley Museum Golcar Near Huddersfield

Address: Cliffe Ash, Golcar, Huddersfield HD7 4PY

A Bit About – The museum is located in a Grade II listed building. It is housed in four cottages built in the 1840s by a family of independent cloth manufacturers, the Pearsons, whose relatives still live in Golcar today. You can wander through the museum’s period living room, wash kitchen and more.

The museum is free to visit. Parking is available on the main road opposite the church or in the free car park on Town End. It is not possible to park outside the museum itself.

Leeds City Museum Leeds

Address: Millennium Square, Leeds LS2 8BH

A Bit About – Leeds City Museum was originally established in 1819 and reopened in 2008. It is housed in the former Mechanics’ Institute built by Cuthbert Brodrick. The museum has six galleries and a programme of family-friendly exhibitions in the heart of the city of Leeds. You can get close to amazing animals, uncover buried archaeological treasures and discover the incredible story of Leeds’s history.

National Coal Mining Museum for England (and outdoors) Near Wakefield

Address: Caphouse Colliery, New Rd, Overton, Wakefield WF4 4RH

A Bit About – The museum is based at the site of Caphouse Colliery in Overton, Wakefield. It keeps the stories of coal mining alive by creating an enjoyable and inspiring way to learn. There are a series of buildings with exhibitions some of which are interactive.

You can also book a guided tour and take the lift down to where the site was once mined for coal. There is an outdoor adventure playground and a small indoor play area for toddlers.

The museum is free to visit, there is a small donation for the tour although you can ask for this back. It is free to park.

National Science and Media Museum Bradford

Address: Pictureville, Bradford BD1 1NQ

A Bit About – Please note they are currently closed for major renovations – This is a modern museum located in the centre of Bradford. The museum has permanent and temporary exhibitions. Permanent exhibitions include a Kodak gallery where you can step into a 19th- Century portrait studio and see hundreds of photography-related objects. Then there is Wonderlab where there are 20 interactive exhibits.

You can learn and experiment with light and sound. Plus there is a games room where you can play all manner of vintage games. (admission into this part is £2 pp).

The museum is free to visit. There is a small charge for the games room. There is a pay and display car park nearby.

Royal Armouries Museum Leeds

Address: Armouries Dr, Leeds LS10 1LT

A Bit About – This is a large museum where you can see the national collection of arms and armour. There are a number of galleries including hunting, Oriental, self-defence and more. The museum also hosts a number of annual family-friendly events.

The museum houses a collection of over 75,000 objects. You can see armour and weapons through the ages from early medieval knights to the modern-day soldier. There are exciting hands-on history activities and live combat demonstrations.

The museum is free to visit. There is a pay and display car park.

Salts Mill Saltaire

Address: Victoria Rd, Saltaire, Shipley BD18 3LA

A Bit About – Salts Mill is set in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Saltaire. The Grade II listed historic mill building is now home to the largest collection of David Hockney art, shops, a cafe and restaurants plus another gallery that takes a fascinating look at Saltaire’s history from 1853 to the present day. The village is also worth a wander around with a play area in the local Roberts Park.

The Mill is free to visit. The car park is also free.

The Hepworth Wakefield

Address: Gallery Walk, Wakefield WF1 5AW

A Bit About – The Hepworth in Wakefield is an art museum with galleries that display sculptures and paintings with a focus on modern art. There are small ‘play’ stations for toddlers. There is also a small play area outside.

The museum is free to visit. There is a pay and display car park nearby.

Tolson Museum and Ravensknowle Park (and outdoors) Huddersfield

Address: Ravensknowle Park, Wakefield Rd, Moldgreen, Huddersfield HD5 8DJ

A Bit About – This museum tells a vivid and intriguing story of the area and its people. Starting from prehistory to the present day with unique collections. From Roman finds to textiles and birds to transport. It is a treasure house of the fascinating, the curious and the amazing. The grounds are expansive with a children’s playground, bowling area and lovely areas for games.

The museum and park are free to visit. There is ample free parking in the main car park.

Wakefield Museum Wakefield

Address: 159 Mulberry Way, Wakefield WF1 2UP

A Bit About – Wakefield Museum is a stimulating and vibrant part of the new and prestigious Wakefield One building in the heart of Wakefield. The museum is located on the lower ground floor along with Local Studies where you are invited to explore and engage with the history of the people of Wakefield.

History comes to life in The Front Room with a Victorian Kitchen and a 1940s living room. Here children can become characters from the past by trying on our dressing-up collection inspired by the costumes on display in the museum, whilst adults can take a trip down memory lane with our 1950s display.

Anglers Country Park near Wakefield

Address: Haw Park Ln, Wintersett, Wakefield WF4 2EB

A Bit About – The park has a huge lake that you can walk all the way around. There is a Room on the Broom trail going around the lake which you can walk around for free. If you want the activity pack it costs £2. There is also a play area. The walk around the lake is 2.5 miles, there are also further walks away from the lake.

The park is free to visit. There is a small charge to park.

Beaumont Park Huddersfield

Address: 74 Beaumont Park Rd, Huddersfield HD4 7AY

A Bit About – This is a magnificent park with ornate features, cascades, grottos, steep cliffs and picturesque woodland walks for all the family. There are play areas and a visitor centre plus other facilities. There is even a hidden castle waiting to be found. The park is just over 20 acres in size.

The park is free to visit. There is parking on the road adjacent to the park.

Bingley St Ives Park Near Bingley

Address: Harden, Bingley BD16 1AT

A Bit About – This 550-acre park is a real gem and it is a great place for wildlife lovers. There are many paths crisscrossing the estate. There is a massive play area and a cafe.

It is free to visit. There is no charge to park.

Bramley Fall Park and Woods Leeds

Address: 77 Town St, Bramley, Leeds LS13 1HL

A Bit About – This is a large park and woods with a playground, playing fields and a trim trail. The wood backs onto the Leeds Liverpool Canal and there is a walk along the riverside with well-defined paths and some steep steps. The woods are around 1 mile in length and the canal path is longer.

The park is free to visit. There are a number of entrances and car parks. Most parking is free.

Bronte Waterfall Haworth

Address: Haworth Moor, Haworth, Keighley BD22 8DR

A Bit About – The Bronte Waterfall is a small waterfall located about a mile southwest of Stanbury near Haworth. The area surrounding the waterfall is mainly moorland and farmland but is part of Bronte country. It is an area of outstanding natural beauty and is famous for its association with the Bronte sisters.

It takes approximately 45 minutes to walk from Haworth Main Street to the Bronte waterfall or 25 minutes from Penistone Hill Country Park which has free parking. There are opportunities to dip your toes in the water and you will have to cross some larger stones and rougher terrain the closer you get to the waterfall.

The waterfall is free to visit. You will have to pay to park in Haworth or you can park at Penistone Hill Country Park for free.

Chevin Forest Park Otley

Address: The Whitehouse Visitor Centre/Johnny La, Otley LS21 3JL

A Bit About – The forest park overlooks the market town of Otley and it is a designated nature reserve. There are some amazing views from the Surprise View car park. You can walk for almost 3 miles.

The forest is free to visit. There are 5 car parks. I believe they are all free but I can not 100% confirm this is correct.

Cromwell Bottom Local Nature Reserve Brighouse

Address: 427 Elland Rd, Brighouse HD6 2RG

A Bit About – Cromwell Bottom is one of the most important wildlife sites in the Calderdale area. The River Calder runs through the reserve and the wetlands and meadows provide a great habitat for a variety of wildlife. The reserve is wheelchair friendly with many paths being accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs.

The reserve is free to visit. There is a free car park or you can park in Brighouse and walk along the canal path.

Eccup Reservoir Leeds

Address: Leeds LS17 7RJ

A Bit About – Eccup Reservoir is a wonderful break from urban life right on the fringe of Leeds. It has a circular walk which is ideal for families with plenty to see along the way. The route passes through woodlands and the quaint village of Eccup, over a dam and alongside a local golf course. The reservoir is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and is nationally important for birds.

It is free to visit. On-street parking is available on Alwoodley Lane. Please park responsibly.

Goit Stock Waterfalls Harden

Address: Penny Cote, Leech Ln, Goit Stock Ln, Harden, Wilsden, Bingley BD16 1DF

A Bit About – The waterfall is something of a hidden gem located in the secluded Goit Stock Wood on the edge of the south Pennines. There is a circular walk that starts at a parking area by Harden Lane and Mill Hill Top. From here you can pick up footpaths heading east through the woods.

You will see pretty streams and rushing falls along the way with lots of opportunities for a shallow paddle, although do be careful of deeper water. The path is uneven and not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.

The waterfalls are free to visit. There may be a charge to park.

Golden Acre Park Leeds

Address: Otley Rd, Bramhope, Leeds LS16 8BQ

A Bit About – There is a popular circular lakeside walk in the park with wonderful gardens and a popular tea room. At 136 acres this is a large park and near to two of Leeds’ most treasured nature reserves: Breary March and Abel Dam. There are streams, ponds, a lake and woodland.

The park is free to visit. There are free car parks off Otley Road and Arthington Road.

Greenhead Park Huddersfield

Address: Trinity St, Huddersfield HD1 4DT

A Bit About – Greenhead Park is a beautiful urban park located west of Huddersfield town centre. It was originally opened in 1884 and it still retains much of its charm from the Victorian era. There is a great variety of things to do at Greenhead Park.

The park has a large paddling pool, two play areas, gardens, a pretty pond with ducks you can feed and additional family-friendly activities in the summer which will have a small charge to use.

The park is free to visit. There is a pay and display car park at the park or there may be free parking on the surrounding roads.

Hardcastle Crags Hebden Bridge

Address: Gibson Mill, Midgehole Rd, Hebden Bridge HX7 7AW

A Bit About – Hardcastle Crags offers a chance to walk through some fairly ancient woodland above a stream that has many paths and items of interest. About a mile from the car park is a renovated mill which is worth a look around. There is also a cafe. The valley is crisscrossed with over 15 miles of footpaths, just waiting to be discovered.

It is free to visit. There are pay and display car parks at Midgehole Road, Clough Hole and Widdop Road.

Horsforth Hall Park and Japanese Gardens Horsforth

Address: Hall Ln, Horsforth, Leeds LS18 5JE

A Bit About – Horsforth Hall Park is a large community park about six miles northwest of Leeds city centre. With scenic walks, a trim trail, Japanese garden. Plus an integrated play facility, Spider’s web playground and more.

The park is free to visit. There may be a charge to park.

Ilkley Riverside Gardens Ilkley

Address: 33 Bridge Ln, Ilkley LS29 9EU

A Bit About – The Riverside Gardens alongside the River Wharfe is a lovely park to spend a couple of hours in. The gardens are a popular place for families with an excellent playground. There is a large sandy area next to the river which people use as a beach.

The park is free to visit and there is free parking although this can easily become busy on a sunny day.

Kirkstall Abbey Kirkstall Leeds

Address: Abbey Rd, Kirkstall, Leeds LS5 3EH

A Bit About – This is one of the best-preserved Cistercian monasteries in the country. It was founded over 800 years ago and is just 3 miles from the city centre of Leeds. It is set in a public park on the north bank of the River Aire.

You can explore the historic ruins, wander through the woodlands and there is a visitor centre with interactive displays. There is a large playground in the park and it’s a great space to play and enjoy a picnic.

The abbey and park are free to visit. There is a large free car park.

Lister Park Bradford

Address: Bradford BD9 4NS

A Bit About – Lister Park, also known as Manningham Park, is a picturesque public park in Bradford. It is located a mile from the city centre and is home to Cartwright Hall art gallery. It has many features including a lake with boating, tennis courts, play areas and inspiring Mughal Water gardens.

The park is free to visit. There is a free car park.

Middleton Park / Leeds Urban Bike Park Middleton

Address: Town St, Middleton, Leeds LS10 3SH

A Bit About – This park has a mixture of traditional parkland and ancient woodland. This green space is over 470 acres and has something for everyone including a cafe, playground, fishing lake and more. There is also 200 acres of woodland. The park is also home to Leeds Urban Bike Park.

The park is free to visit. Some facilities may have a small charge. There may be a charge to park.

Newmillar Dam and Gnome Roam Wakefield

Address: Newmillerdam, Wakefield WF2 6QQ

A Bit About – The country park features a central lake surrounded by a surfaced path with surrounding woodland. You can take part in the gnome roam trail where you find the sculptures and complete the activity challenges as you go. There is a 1.5-mile surface lake walk and further walks.

The park is free to visit. There may be a small charge to park.

Oakwell Hall Country Park Batley

Address: Nutter Ln, Birstall, Batley WF17 9LF

A Bit About – The restored gardens are well worth a visit and there are 100 acres of Green Flag award-winning country park. With a visitor centre, gift shop, cafe, nature trail, picnic site and a playground designed for children of all abilities.

The park is free to visit and it is free to park.

Ogden Water Country Park Near Halifax

Address: Ogden Ln, Halifax HX2 8XZ

A Bit About – Ogden Water local nature reserve offers a superb opportunity to escape from the stresses and strains of everyday life. Over 300,000 people visit every year to enjoy picnics, walking, feeding the ducks and nature activities. There are numerous woodland trails and waterside paths to explore including 1 1/4 miles of wheelchair-accessible pathway.

Pontefract Castle Pontefract

Address: The Lodge Castle Chain, Pontefract WF8 1QH

A Bit About – The castle is a ruin that stands in the town of Pontefract. It was once a magnificent and extravagant place that today has many stories to tell. You can explore the remnants of ferocious sieges and Victorian pleasure grounds. You can discover the captivating stories of the castle via displays. There is also a fun adventure play area.

The castle is free to visit. There are pay and display car parks nearby.

Pugneys Country Park Wakefield

Address: Asdale Rd, Denby Dale Rd, Wakefield WF2 7EQ

A Bit About – There are a number of walks with good footpath links to Sandal Castle where there are spectacular views to the west along the Calder Valley. Within the park, there is a nature reserve where you can enjoy bird watching and water sports.

The park has a play area, a light railway and cycle paths. Their unique Blown Adventure Trail provide activities that provide a fun outdoor experience for all the family! The Trail is based on the story Blown Away written by local author Conrad Burdekin and illustrated by Lilian Fitchett.

The park is free to visit. It is free to park for 2 hours, after that you have to pay (please get a free ticket from the machine). Some activities may be charged.

Roundhay Park Leeds

Address: Mansion Ln, Roundhay, Leeds LS8 2HH

A Bit About – Roundhay Park covers over 700 acres of parkland, lakes and woodland. It is one of the largest urban parks in the world. There are gardens, a playground, lakes, a land train, a castle folly, cafes and more.

The park is free to visit and free to park. There is a small charge for the land train.

RSPB Fairburn Ings Near Castleford

Address: RSPB Fairburn Ings Visitor Centre, Newton Ln, Castleford WF10 2BH

A Bit About – Nestled between Leeds, York and Wakefield. Fairburn Ings is an exciting site for family activities and serious wildlife watching. Over the last 60 years, it has transitioned from a coal face to a wild place. The circular walk is 5.5 miles.

It is free to visit. Parking is free for members of the RSPB. Non-members pay £4 to park.

RSPB St Aidans Park Leeds

Address: RSPB St Aidan’s Nature Park, Astley Ln, Leeds LS26 8AL

A Bit About – Just a stone’s throw from the centre of Leeds, St. Aidan’s is a stunning park to explore. Whether you’re on foot, on your bike, or have your camera at the ready, take advantage of the amazing views and wonderful wildlife.

The park is free to visit. Parking is free for members of the RSPB. There is a small charge to park for non-members.

Standedge Tunnel and Visitor Centre Near Huddersfield

Address: Waters Rd, Huddersfield HD7 6NQ

A Bit About – Standedge Tunnel is Britain’s longest, deepest and highest canal tunnel. At the Marsden end of the tunnel in their visitor centre, you can learn all about the history of the tunnel. The collection consists of over 12,000 objects. You can also go on boat trips from here although there is a small charge for this.

The boat trips start from Tunnel End Cottages at the tunnel mouth and go about 500 metres into the tunnel. There is a recently refurbished cafe with a small indoor soft play area. There is also the Admiral’s trail which is a great family-friendly trail to help you explore the area.

The visitor centre etc. is free to visit. There is a small charge if you want to take a boat trip. Car parking is in the car park near Marsden railway station. From there it is a pleasant ten-minute walk along the canal towpath to Tunnel End.

Temple Newsam Park Leeds

Address: Temple Newsam Rd, Leeds LS15 0AE

A Bit About – This is a large free park with fantastic views across rolling hills. There are nature trails, walking, cycling and it’s a great place to take a picnic. There is a playground and beautiful gardens. There are other facilities such as Go Ape, a farm and you can look around the house, all of these have entrance fees.

It is free to park and free to visit.

Thornes Park Wakefield

Address: 101 Thornes Rd, Wakefield WF2 8QD

A Bit About – The park is a large public park close to the centre of Wakefield. Along with Clarence Park and Holmfield Park, it forms a large parkland to the southwest of the city. The park boasts a model railway, formal gardens, a lake, a skate park and an aviary.

There is a large children’s play area in Thornes Park with slides, climbing frames, swings and see-saws for children to enjoy. There is also a smaller area for under 5s to enjoy play designed for them with small slides and rocking figures.

The park is free to visit. There may be a small charge for a few of the facilities. There may be a charge to park.

Walton Colliery Nature Park Wakefield

Address: 102 Shay Ln, Walton, Wakefield WF2 6NB

A Bit About – Located 3 miles southeast of Wakefield, Walton Colliery Nature Park consists of lakes and ponds, woodland and grassland and also a section of the Barnsley canal. With a network of paths through the park for walking and cycling. The loop trail is 3 miles in length.

Wharfemeadows Park Otley

Address: 1 Farnley Ln, Otley LS21 2AB

A Bit About – One of the most well-known sights in Otley, lies alongside the River Wharfe and has beautiful gardens where you can take a leisurely walk, or go on the river on a boat or pedalo. There is an extensive playground and you can enjoy ice cream from the cafe that overlooks the river. There is also a skateboard park and an outdoor gym.

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50+ Ideas for Indoor Days Out in Yorkshire on a Rainy Day

How many times have I woken up full of outdoor adventure plans only to look out the window and realise I need a plan B?  When it’s a rainy day in Yorkshire , it’s time for some indoor days out for the kids! That usually meant a trip to the museum or water park for us, but I was keen to add more ideas to the list.

With this in mind, I asked local bloggers and Yorkshire Tots Facebook Page followers to suggest their favourite indoor activities with kids.  

Indoor Days Out Yorkshire

Here are 60+ indoor days out in Yorkshire that are fun in any weather, but perfect for a rainy day!

The Hidden Village: Play Village and Toy Boutique, Leeds

44 Call Ln Leeds West Yorkshire LS1 6DT

The Hidden Village is an indoor play village for children aged up to 10 years. It features 8 exciting role-play areas to explore. Your child will have lots of fun tending to the animals at the vets, baking a tasty treat in the café, styling the clients hair at the salon, coming to rescue on the fire engine, solving crimes at the police station, building a house, and lots more. There is a lovely, cosy café area for parents to relax whilst enjoying a freshly ground coffee, tasty bite to eat, or a cheeky slice of cake.

Tropical World, Leeds

Princes Ave, Roundhay Park, Leeds LS8 2ER

Tropical World Leeds is a great place to spend a rainy day. You'll find fish, a few exotic animals including monkeys and meerkats as well as butterflies and waterfalls.

The Royal Armouries, Leeds

Armouries Dr, Leeds LS10 1LT

The   Royal Armouries has a massive amount of indoor space to explore.  There are five galleries which include: War, Tournament, Oriental, Self-defence, and Hunting with over 8,500 objects on display.  Entry is free and there are often special events and activities, especially during school holidays.  You can even enjoy a ride on the  Leeds Water Taxi  after your visit!

Thackray Medical Museum, Leeds

141 Beckett St, Harehills, Leeds LS9 7LN

“My daughters and I visited the  Thackray Medical Museum during the summer holidays. My daughters were 5, 7, and 14. All three of them found our visit there fascinating. I was a bit concerned that there would be some gory bits and some awkward questions, but it was absolutely fine. I loved the interactive displays that were aimed at encouraging children to touch, feel and smell. There is also a dedicated children’s area in the museum which the younger two found fascinating. I think the best part was when my older daughter came home from school a few months later excited by the fact that they were now covering topics in school that she had learned about during the visit to the Thackray Medical Museum. I can’t recommend a visit there highly enough. It’s perfect for the whole family,” says Carly of momoftwolittlegirls.com. 

Leeds City Museum, Leeds

Leeds City Museum, Millennium Square, Leeds LS2 8BH

I am really impressed with how child-friendly Leeds City Museum is.  There are plenty of hands-on indoor activities including drawing, fancy dress, listening to recordings, and even the chance to have a go at fossil digging.  There are lots of lovely little corners set up for kids throughout the museum.

Abbey House Museum, Leeds

Abbey Walk, Abbey Rd, Kirkstall, Leeds LS5 3EH

Explore the galleries at Abbey House Museum to find out what life was like in Victorian Leeds. Be transported back to the 19th century and stroll the Victorian streets with the authentically recreated shops, pubs and houses.  Abbey House Museum  has a new exhibition each year, which is inspired by a theme from the museum’s collection, along with exciting events running throughout the year.

LaserZone | Leeds & Castleford

Venues in Leeds & Castleford

Kids can battle to save the planet at  LaserZone! This is perfect for ages 7 and up. Kids are first given a briefing and safety talk in the ‘air lock’ before they are let loose in the arena where the teams work together to try to earn the most points.

Planet Ice, Leeds

Planet Ice, Elland Rd, Beeston, Leeds LS11 0EY

Planet Ice is a covered rink in Leeds for indoor ice skating. You book your experience in two-hour blocks and can rent skates and skate helpers onsite. There is a small cafe area and lockers for anything you don’t want to bring on the ice.

Puttstars, Leeds

Puttstars, Century Way, Leeds, LS15 8GB

Why you’ll love it: Do you love a bit of crazy golf? Then take yourselves to Puttstars! With a choice of 3 different quirky and exciting 9 hole courses which all boast weird and wonderful ways of winning points, you will be in for a lot of fun. The automated system keeps tabs on who’s in the lead for you and with some tactical scoring opportunities, let the competition begin! Puttstars also has a family-friendly diner serving pizzas and hot dogs amongst a lot more. What’s not to love?!

Leeds Art Gallery, Leeds

The Headrow, Leeds LS1 3AA

Leeds Art Gallery has an impressive collection of 20th-century British Art. It has a children’s area with activities for kids to try and a beautifully tiled hall for a treat or bite to eat.

Oh Hello Studio, Pudsey

17a, Fulneck, Pudsey, Leeds LS28 8NT

Oh Hello Studio Is a gorgeous little pottery painting studio in Fulneck, Pudsey. It is very child friendly and the owner, Emily is on hand with any questions or to help with little ones' hand and foot prints. You can pick your piece and have a cuppa and a treat while you paint!

Clip 'n Climb

Leeds, Garforth & Ilkley

“We were at Clip 'n Climb for a party at the weekend. It is a great place for anyone older than about 4 – climbing challenges range from fairly easy to virtually impossible, so there’s something for everyone. The cafe is excellent as well for those non-climbers – the food is reasonably priced and excellent quality,” says Amanda Mahoney.

Manor House, Ilkley

Castle Yard, Ilkley LS29 9DT

Ilkley Manor House is free to visit and a great place to learn a bit about Ilkley’s fascinating past.

There is a mouse spotting challenge, a small model train, and a table with drawing activities for kids. You can even scoop up a free badge.

Toy Museum, Ilkley

2 Whitton Croft Rd, Ilkley LS29 9HR

Visitors can discover the fascinating stories of toys through the ages and some of the children who played with them at Ilkley Toy Museum. The museum is open Saturdays and Sundays from 12-4 pm.

Happy Planet, Baildon

2a, Baildon Green Mills, Baildon, Bradford BD17 7NW

Happy Planet is a new eco-friendly sensory play centre for under 6s, located in Baildon. They use natural and recycled resources to invoke creation and imagination. There is a cafe serving yummy wholesome veggie and vegan food, free from and organic. 

Nature, learn, explore, grow

TAG X, Batley

Batley Sports & Tennis Centre, Windmill Lane, Birstall, Batley, WF17 0QD

TAG X is a real life, active gaming experience that will challenge players to take part in a variety of games and challenges. The aim of the game is to collect points on a wristband, by swiping against different illuminated tags hidden within different zones throughout the arena.

Designed for ages 8 years or over, it will test your speed, strategy, bravery and agility, before ranking you against others. You will even be able to come back next time and try to beat your own personal best!

Located next to Stompers Play Gym, there really is something for all the family to do here, with Costa Coffee and food available, as well as free Wi-Fi.

National Science and Media Museum, Bradford | Currently Closed for Renovation

Currently Closed for Renovation

Little Horton Ln, Bradford BD1 1NQ

The National Science and Media Museum is open almost every day of the year, but it’s an especially good place for indoor activities for kids during holidays.

Yorkshire Tots reviewer Lindsey Dixon says, “We love the media museum in Bradford. There’s plenty of things to see and do to keep the kids entertained (and as a bonus it’s educational) and if it’s a school holiday they usually put on extra bits and pieces. Some lovely grub in the cafe and if you’re feeling really flush you could even go to the cinema while you’re there! I also love a cheeky game on sonic the hedgehog in the old games consoles section.”

Hollywood Bowl, Bradford

The Leisure Exchange, Vicar Ln, Bradford BD1 5LD

Hollywood Bowl in Bradford comes with easy free parking in the Leisure Exchange multi-story car park, good prices and a small arcade area. Just be sure to validate your parking ticket at the reception before leaving. We found the staff to be very friendly and the kids had a great morning bowling with friends!

Bradford industrial Museum, Bradford

235 Moorside Rd, Bradford BD2 3HP

Bradford’s Industrial Museum has permanent displays of textile machinery, steam power, engineering, printing machinery, and motor vehicles, along with an exciting exhibitions programme. You can see Moorside House where the Mill Manager lived, or visit the Mill-workers’ terraced houses dressed to reflect three different time periods.

Bagshaw Museum, Batley

Wilton Park, Batley WF17 OAS

The Bagshaw Museum is a quirky, hidden gem next to Wilton Park in Batley with an eclectic collection of exhibits from the Egyptology gallery to rugby paraphernalia and puppets from a British seaside past.  It’s not a large museum, but it makes a nice afternoon out for the kids with a new quiz or kids’ trail featured weekly.

Grasshoppers, Tong

Tong Ln, Bradford BD4 0RY

Grasshoppers has a large indoor play area with a sports court and a special area for under 3’s. The outdoor play area at Grasshoppers is just as exciting with sandpits, bouncy pillows, and wooden play frames.

Cliffe Castle Museum, Keighley

Spring Gardens Ln, Keighley BD20 6LH

Cliffe Castle was originally the home of a Victorian millionaire and textile manufacturer.  It is now a local heritage museum that includes galleries dedicated to the exploration of the geology of rocks and minerals as well as natural history.  There is plenty of family fun to be had as well.

Eureka! Halifax

Discovery Rd, Halifax HX1 2NE

When it comes to kids’ museums, it’s hard to find one more with more to explore than Eureka! in Halifax.  Karen Beddow of Mini Travellers says, “There are literally hundreds of interactive, hands-on exhibits…Our kids spent hours playing in the kitchen making lunch, pretend M&S, post office, and bank. “

Calderdale Industrail Museum, Halifax

Square Rd, Halifax HX1 1QG

The  Calderdale Industrail Museum is home to working, original machines as well as many special and rare artefacts relating to the industrial heritage of Calderdale.

“This amazing museum is right next to the Piece Hall in Halifax and contains a large variety of historic machinery. Tots and teens will love talking to knowledgeable volunteers, and there’s a popular picture quiz for the younger ones. Popular highlights include the toffee-wrapping machine and the moquette loom,” says Chairman Tim Kirker.

Standedge Tunnel, Marsden

SATNAV HD7 6DH takes you to the free parking at Marsden Station. From there take the 15 minute pushchair friendly walk along the towpath to join us. Disabled parking at the visitor centre.

Fancy a trip into Britain’s longest, deepest, highest canal tunnel.? (Did I mention you get to wear a hard hat for the journey?) Standedge Tunnel is a great day out! You can take a boat into the tunnel and explore the free visitor centre.

Huddersfield Splash Park, Huddersfield

Spring Grove St, Huddersfield HD1 4BP

Yorkshire Tots reader Abi Ashton says, “My little girl loves  Huddersfield Splash Park.”  It’s easy to see why!  The Huddersfield Splash park not only has a special pool for little ones, but there is also a water flume, Sidewinder, and lazy river to play on!

Huddersfield Inflatable Theme Park

Unit 2, Folly Hall Mill, St Thomas’ Rd, Huddersfield HD1 3LT

Inflata Nation has loads of fun-filled inflatable activities joined together as one huge indoor arena! There are giant slides and a ball pool, Inflata Duel, where you can challenge your opponent on a gladiator platform and even super bouncy inflatable bubbles!

The Hepworth, Wakefield

The Hepworth, Gallery Walk, Wakefield WF1 5AW

The Hepworth is a family-friendly museum to inspire your little artists. There is a family trail to help kids explore the galleries, a riverside play park, and a picnic area. There are family-friendly events and activities on the weekends and school holidays as well.

Xscape & Junction 32, Castleford

Colorado Way, Glasshoughton, Castleford WF10 4TA

See a film, master the climbing wall, bounce on the wall-to-wall trampolines, enjoy pirate golf, and more at Xcape and Junction 32.   Yorkshire Tots reviewer Ali spent the entire day there says, “a great day out and there is plenty on offer that we didn’t get round to doing including anything in The Snow Zone, two other golf areas, Xplore – the large soft play centre and Gravity -the fabulous trampoline zone at the very back of the building.”

Wakefield Museum, Wakefield

Burton St, Wakefield WF1 2EB

Wakefield Museum covers the history of the city of Wakefield and the local area from prehistoric times onwards.  There are plenty of interactive exhibits including the chance to ride the Rhubarb express, stand on the back of a ferocious caiman, try on some hats and wigs and identify if World War 2 planes are friend or foe.  With so much to see, this makes for a great free indoor day out. The front room is a special area dedicated to families having fun! The space contains dressing up, activity and creative sheets, toys, and a child-sized 1950s play kitchen.

“Seeing the crocodile and play in the kitchen never fails to excite my 3 year old,” says Jennifer Townend.

National Coal Mining Museum of England, Wakefield

Caphouse Colliery, New Rd, Overton WF4 4RH

Explore  Caphouse , a modern colliery which witnessed more than two hundred years of coal production. Hear stories directly from former-miners about their careers and understand the roles men, women, children, animals and machinery played in the operation of the mine. Then let off steam in the Adventure Playground.

Whistlestop Valley, Clayton West

Park Mill Way, Clayton West, HD8 9XJ United Kingdom

Whistlestop Valley   provides families real steam train rides, a miniature ride-on train and a cafe with indoor & outdoor seating.

For sunny days you can enjoy not one but TWO outdoor playgrounds.

Cannon Hall Museum and Park, Barnsley

Bark House Ln, Cawthorne, Barnsley S75 4AT

Canon Hall Museum is free for families to visit and

Calypso Cove, Barnsely

Metrodome Leisure Complex Queens Ground, Queens Rd, Barnsley S71 1AN

My kids love the Calypso Cove in Barnsley and who could blame them? The pirate-themed splash park has plenty of fun slides, an interactive toddler splash zone ‘Barnacle Bay’, and even a wave machine!

Experience Barnsley Museum

Town Hall, Church St, Barnsley S70 2TA

Vintage cars, hands on games and activities, and a dress up box await families vising Experience Barnsley Museum and Discovery Centre and it's completely free to visit!

Magna Science Adventure Centre, Rotherham

Sheffield Road, Templeborough, Rotherham, S60 1DX

Magna Science Adventure Centre in Rotherham is an expansive showcase of the natural world. Their centre is made up of four separate pavilions which focus on each of the four elements; Air, Earth, Fire and Water and there is a host of scientific demonstrations, experiments and interactive exhibits to enjoy in each section. In the Air pavilion, for example, visitors can create amazing patterns using air cannons, examine a tornado and learn about some of the earliest attempts at aviation. When you visit the Earth pavilion you will have the chance to experience what it is like to extract rocks from the earth for steel making. Visitors will be able to control JCBs, hoppers and other machinery, the activities in this pavilion are sure to get your adrenaline pumping.   

Tropical Butterfly House, Sheffield

Woodsetts Rd, North Anston, Sheffield S25 4EQ

Meet lemurs, meerkats, owls, otters, snakes, lizards, and even a tarantula at Tropical Butterfly House.

Air Haus, Sheffield

Vulcan Road S9 1 Sheffield

Airhaus is an inflatable theme park less than a 5-minute drive from Meadowhall in Sheffield. The kids loved it! It’s a warehouse filled with giant, inflatable fun. It’s flashing lights, it’s loud, it’s jumping & climbing & ball pits & obstacles. Perfect for the kids. And an hour was the perfect amount of time for me! It costs £10 per child for a 1-hour session. There are food and drinks available to buy as well. I recommend bringing water as the kids were thirsty after an hour’s jump so I ended up buying two plastic water bottles. (I really try not to as it’s such a waste!)

Millennium Gallery, Sheffield

48 Arundel Gate, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield S1 2PP

The Millennium Gallery is an art gallery and museum in the centre of Sheffield. The gallery has two permanent collections, two temporary exhibition spaces as well as a cafe and a shop.

Weston Park Museum, Sheffield

Western Bank, Sheffield S10 2TP

Weston Park Museum is a free, award-winning, family-friendly museum with lots of interactive exhibits for children as well as a cafe on site.  It is the largest museum in Sheffield and has seven galleries including the Harold Cantor Gallery, Sheffield Life and Times History Lab, Arctic World, What On Earth!m Treasures, and Picturing Sheffield.

Doncater Dome, Sheffield

Doncaster Lakeside, Bawtry Rd, Doncaster DN4 7PD

Doncaster Dome has over 50 activities taking place under one roof, a magical 7-pool water world, the Lagoons, and the UK’s only split level ice rink, Ice Caps.

“We’ve been to Doncaster dome plenty of times, handy that skating and swimming is in the same place, and they do a cheaper ticket to combine the both,” says Emma Gould.

Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway

Bolton Abbey Railway Station, Skipton BD23 6AF

Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway is a lovely volunteer-run, preserved Heritage Railway near Bolton Abbey.

Billy Bob's Ice Cream Parlour

Enjoy the best ice cream shakes in Yorkshire and play in one of two covered play barns at Billy Bob's Ice Cream Parlour. Just be sure to book a table first, as it is very busy on weekends and school holidays!

Hesketh Farm Park near Bolton Abbey

Hesketh Farm Park, Bolton Abbey, Skipton BD23 6HA

Hesketh Farm near Bolton Abbey provides a place to meet a variety of farm animals, have a guinea pig cuddle, and enjoy and ride-on tractors all undercover. There is a great outdoor play area as well, but you can find plenty to do on a rainy day!

The Playhive at Stockeld Park

Wetherby Rd, Wetherby LS22 4AN

Stockeld Park’s new Playhive needs to be seen to be believed! A large immersive play space with cleverly designed equipment centred around four zones - ocean, jungle, air and space. Prepare to pilot your very own helicopter, slide down the trunk of an elephant, blast off into space on a trampoline and hide inside a jellyfish! This amazing area is linked with countless tunnels and slides all spread out around a central play space.

Access to the Playhive is an add-on to regular Stockeld Park entry and price depends on whether you want a 1.5-hour session or free access all day. Most suited for 2-11 years but all are welcome and adults are encouraged to play too!

Stump Cross Caverns

B6265, Greenhow Hill, Pateley Bridge HG3 5JL

Stump Cross Caverns is a family-owned, ancient, natural cave formation deep underneath the Yorkshire Dales, that offers a unique experience for visitors. My two loved exploring the caverns and filling out their fossil trail sheet. There is a fairy trail as well & they did plenty of peeking in the little fairy doors! The prizes at the end are great too.

York's Chocolate Story, York

3-4 Kings Square, York YO1 7LD

Kids can become chocolatiers on an interactive tour of York's Chocolate story!

National Railway Museum, York

Leeman Rd, York YO26 4XJ

The National Railway Museum is another great option for a free, indoor day out.  With a Little Play Station for under 5’s, and over 300 years of railway history to explore, and plenty of indoor activities, everyone is sure to have fun at the National Railway Museum.

Jorvick Viking Centre, York

19 Coppergate, York YO1 9WT

The Jorvik Viking Centre lets visitors experience Viking life in the heart of York with lifelike mannequins and life-size dioramas.

The York Dungeon, York

12 Clifford St, York YO1 9RD

The York Dungeon lets visitors explore the history of the dungeon using actor-led shows, special effects, and displays of models and objects.

Creepy Crawlies, York

The Web Adventure Park,  Wigginton Road, York.YO32 2RH

The Web is a massive indoor soft play centre but with so much more included. They have a large outdoor play area which includes climbing equipment, ride-on toys, sand and water play, mini golf and the newest addition – bouncy pillows. There’s also an animal area with rabbits, Guinea pigs, sheep, goats and more.

Whitby Museum, Whitby

Pannett Park, Whitby YO21 1RE

Whitby Museum is full of the kinds of treasures and curios you would expect from a place with such a rich history. Families will find local fossils, natural history, model ships, carved jet, toys, costumes, and more. You can also play at the pirate-themed Pannet Park during your visit.

North Yorkshire Moors Railway

The North Yorkshire Moors Railway runs for 18 miles through the North York Moors National Park from the Whitby Station.   We visited the North Yorkshire Moors Railway with four generations: my grandmother, my mother, myself, and my two children.  It was a lovely day out for everyone and a great way to the countryside!

Sealife, Scarborough

Scalby Mills Rd, Scarborough YO12 6RP

At Sealife you can visit a Seal Hospital, walk the ocean floor, and come face to face with a variety of sea creatures! It’s a great place to learn about our oceans and the importance of conservation.

Inflata Nation, Beverley

Flemingate, Unit 1, Block A, Beverley HU17 0NQ

Inflata Nation is a double-decker inflatable theme park with giant inflatables, activities, and a huge ball pool filled with 200,000 balls!

Streetlife Museum, Hull

High St, Hull HU1 1PS

 The Streetlife Museum of Transport allows you to step back in time with 200 years of transport history.  You can enjoy a walk down a 1940s high street, board a tram, or even have a carriage ride. 

William's Den, North Cave

Castle Farm, Wold Hill HU15 2LS

William's Den near North Cave in Brough has the best tree house ever and lots of fun both indoors and out!

Hull and East Riding Museum

36 Hight St, Hull HU1 1NQ

Come face to face with a wooly mammoth at the Hull & East Riding Museum! You can also see wooden warriors discover a unique Iron Age sword, and see what life was like and how people used to live.

The Maritime Museum, Hull

Queen Victoria Square, Hull, HU1 3DX

Explore Hull’s old Dock Offices and discover superb ship models and maritime art, the whaler’s craft of Scrimshaw as well as whaling, fishing, and trawling exhibits

The Deep, Hull

Tower St, Hull HU1 4DP

The Deep is a fantastic aquarium in Hull. Get your tickets. Children under 3 go free and you can return for free all year round with the purchase of a ticket.

The Treasure House, Beverley

Champney Rd, Beverley HU17 8HE

The East Riding Treasure House is a heritage centre providing museum, library, and archive facilities under one roof, plus access to the adjoining Edwardian exhibition spaces of the Beverley Art Gallery.

Your local library

I love this suggestion from Yorkshire Tots reader Michelle Millar who says, “We like going to the library when it’s rainy. Gets you out of the house, plus you get that smug feeling of doing something both educational and free.”

Libraries often put on fantastic free events for families as well!

Indoor fun for Rainy Day in Yorkshire during school holidays

Rainy days with kids during term breaks can be particularly challenging as frankly, there are lots of kids in a small space! However, many of our local venues put on fantastic indoor activities and events during term breaks. Here are our top 10 places to go when it’s raining during half term.

1 National Media Museum, Bradford – Events page

2 The Royal Armouries, Leeds – Events page

3 Leeds City Museum, Leeds – Events page

4 The Hepworth, Wakefield – Events page

5 Abbey House Museum, Leeds – Events page

6. National Coal Mining Museum, Wakefield – Events page

7. Eureka! Halifax – Events page

8. National Railway Museum, York – Events page

9. See a film at discounted prices

More Rainy Day Yorkshire Fun

25 FREE indoor activities & attractions in Yorkshire

10 Places for Cheap Cinema Tickets for Kids in West Yorkshire

28 BEST Indoor Family Activities in Leeds

The BEST Yorkshire railway attractions for families

More days out ideas….

25 Fantastic Yorkshire Farms to Visit with Kids

100+ Fabulous Family Friendly Yorkshire Walks

50+ Days Out with Teenagers in Yorkshire

100+ Free Days Out in Yorkshire for Families

Work with Yorkshire Tots to Teens

Pin Me | 50+ Indoor Days Out in Yorkshire

Author: Erin at Yorkshiretots

Love this list thanks Erin! We spent a day at Cliffe Castle in Keighley today and it was great! Old school but fab, and the kids really enjoyed it. Oh and it’s free! x

Thank you Julia! We’ve never been but it sounds like one of the list!

Great list. We’ve still not made it to Billy Bob’s ice cream parlour and I’m sure we’d all love the York Chocolate story!

Chocolate Story is one we’ve not done yet either. It looks like fun!

York chocolate story is not toddler friendly. 1.5 hours of talking at you and you have to keep all kids quiet. I do not reccommend unless you have older children.

Thanks, Erin for the helpful post! We all family love sleeping two-third of a rainy day..

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15 of the Best Towns in Yorkshire for a Day Out

Whether you’re looking for natural views, historical landmarks, museums or sandy beaches, one of the best towns in Yorkshire is perfect for you. If you’re staying in North England, add these picturesque Yorkshire towns to your bucket list. 

Yorkshire, which is split into North, West, South and East, often goes by the nickname of ‘God’s Own Country’, and if you visit some of this county’s best towns, you’ll soon understand why. 

From Victorian spa towns like Harrogate to seaside resorts such as Whitby, Yorkshire’s towns are just as diverse as they are postcard perfect. 

So, without further ado, here are 15 of our favourite towns in Yorkshire to help you plan your next trip to England’s largest county. 

Interesting Towns in Yorkshire  

Searching for a day out or weekend getaway in North England? You won’t regret spending time in these amazing Yorkshire towns. 

1. Harrogate  

Harrogate is a Victorian spa town in North Yorkshire, home to museums, historic architecture and plenty of outdoor activities. 

Some of the most famous attractions to visit on a day out in Harrogate include the Royal Pump Room Museum, the Grade II listed Valley Gardens and the RHS Garden Harlow Carr, one of England’s best gardens . 

If you’re looking for something unique to do while visiting this wonderful town in Yorkshire, we recommend booking a spa session at the Turkish Baths Harrogate , which occupies an ornate Victorian building inspired by Moorish architecture. 

While staying in North Yorkshire , you might want to visit nearby UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which include the model village of Saltaire and Fountains Abbey. 

2. Knaresborough  

Not far from Harrogate is Knaresborough, one of the most photographed towns in Yorkshire and one of the most interesting towns in England . 

This historic market town is perched above the River Nidd, one of England’s most scenic rivers . Crossing the River Nidd is one of Knaresborough’s most famous attractions – the Victorian-era Knaresborough Viaduct. You can also take in views of the River Nidd while exploring the ruins of Knaresborough Castle. 

Besides historic landmarks, Knaresborough boasts a labyrinth of medieval streets lined with Victorian houses, traditional pubs and boutique shops. 

3. Grassington  

The Yorkshire town of Grassington is locally adored for its bustling cobbled market square, where you’ll find numerous local stores selling food, arts and speciality gifts. It’s also one of the most popular towns with visitors to the Yorkshire Dales National Park . 

If you want to experience the traditional side of Grassington, consider visiting during the first two weeks of December, when historical events such as the Christmas Market and the Grassington Dickensian Festival take place. 

While you’re on the doorstep of one of England’s best national parks , we recommend visiting some of the highlights of the Yorkshire Dales, which include Malham Cove, Bolton Abbey and the Linton Falls . 

4. Beverley  

Beverley is the county town of the East Riding of Yorkshire , best known for the centuries-old Beverley Racecourse. We also love browsing local handicrafts at the town’s historic market. 

Located just outside of Beverley’s town borders is Beverley Westwood, where you’ll bump into lots of hikers as well as free-roaming sheep and cattle. In the town itself, the most imposing landmark is the Gothic-style Beverley Minister, which has dominated the town’s skyline since the 13 th century. 

During summer, many of Beverley’s quaint restaurants spill out onto the streets. If you fancy splashing out on a meal during your stay, book a table at the Michelin-starred Pipe and Glass . 

READ MORE: Best Attractions in Yorkshire

5. Hawes  

Hawes is one of the most idyllic market towns in Yorkshire. It consists of just a few streets lined with stone cottages, all centered around Gayle Beck. 

In spite of its small size, Hawes has some pretty huge claims to fame. It’s home to the Hardraw Force, which is England’s tallest single-drop waterfall. It’s also the birthplace of Wensleydale cheese – a trip to Hawes isn’t complete without a visit to the Wensleydale Creamery . 

6. Haworth  

If you’re looking for easy day trips from Bradford or Leeds, we suggest paying a visit to the Yorkshire town of Haworth, which was once called home by the Brontë sisters. 

Many of Haworth’s most famous attractions pay homage to the Brontë sisters, including the Brontë Waterfall and the Brontë Parsonage Museum (the former home of the sisters). Other top sites to see in Haworth include the Hewenden Viaduct and the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway. If you want to soak up the outdoors, you can take a stroll around the town’s numerous reservoirs and tracts of moorland. 

While you’re here, you might want to check out more of the best days out in West Yorkshire .  

7. Whitby  

Whitby is one of the best-known seaside towns in Yorkshire , home to one of the widest sandy strips in the county. It’s also home to the spectacular Whitby Abbey, which dates back to the 7 th century. 

While families in Whitby love activities such as beach donkey rides and paddling, many people visit this charming coastal town to taste the award-winning fish and chips. There’s also much history to the area, which you can get a glimpse into at the Whitby Museum and the Captain Cook Memorial Museum .  

If you want to make the most of the outdoors (when you’re not sunbathing on the beach), head over to Pannet Park or Whitby Harbour. You’ll get the best views of the beach by climbing the famous 199 steps. 

8. Robin Hood’s Bay  

Fancy heading to a scenic coastal destination that fringes the North York Moors? Robin Hood’s Bay is the place to go, especially if you’re searching for a day trip from York . 

Despite this Yorkshire town’s name, Robin Hood’s Bay actually has very little to do with the outlaw legend. The town’s name comes from its legacy as a smuggler’s hideout during the 18 th century. Robin Hood’s Bay may no longer be a den for criminals, but its remoteness is what makes it so appealing.  

While exploring the town itself, you’ll notice an abundance of characteristic red-roofed fishers’ cottages as well as delicious fish and chip shops. If you want to learn about the town’s smuggling and fishing heritage, pay a visit to the Robin Hood’s Bay Museum . 

9. Richmond  

Richmond is a charming town by the River Swale overlooked by a honey-coloured castle that dates back to the 11 th century. Thanks to this Yorkshire town’s unique character and beauty, it’s been named as one of the most romantic places to visit in North East England . 

In the town of Richmond, you can roam around one of the biggest cobbled squares in England, which is surrounded by historical landmarks such as The Green Howards Museum and the Richmond Market. Nearby, you can explore Richmond Castle, one of the most fascinating castles in England . 

If you want to soak up some nature while visiting Richmond, walk along the riverbanks beneath the castle. Numerous waterfalls add to the river’s scenic beauty. If you simply want to sit back, relax and enjoy the town’s atmosphere, grab a table at a traditional pub such as The Castle Tavern . 

10. Huddersfield  

Huddersfield was once one of Yorkshire’s most prominent mill towns. Today, people visit this historic Yorkshire town to see its centuries-old architecture and amazing views of the Pennines.  

The most famous landmark in Huddersfield is Victoria Tower on top of Castle Hill, which offers sprawling views of the surrounding countryside. Other top attractions in Huddersfield include the Victorian-era Greenhead Park, Beaumont Park and the Tolson Memorial Museum. 

To make the most of an evening in Huddersfield, catch a performance at the Lawrence Batley Theatre . 

11. Hebden Bridge  

Hebden Bridge is a wonderful town in Yorkshire that’s been given many nicknames – ‘Europe’s Greatest Town’, ‘World’s 4 th funkiest town’ and ‘UK Lesbian Capital’, to name a few. 

Known for its art and creativity, Hebden Bridge has barely any high-street chain stores. Instead, most stores are locally owned, which only adds to this amazing Yorkshire town’s quaint charm. There’s even an independent cinema that dates back to the 1920s. 

While exploring Hebden Bridge, you’ll notice many remnants of the town’s industrial past in the form of historic architecture and former mills. One of the town’s most popular attractions is the beautiful waterfront of Hardcastle Crags. 

12. Pickering  

Interested in learning some interesting facts about Yorkshire and its heritage? Visit the town of Pickering within the North York Moors National Park. 

Pickering’s most famous landmark is probably Pickering Castle, which has dominated this Yorkshire town’s skyline since the 13 th century. There’s also a 12 th -century church at the eastern end of Market Place. 

While you’re here, you might want to ride the North Yorkshire Moors Railway – Pickering marks the terminus of this heritage route. Visit in August to attend the Pickering Traction Engine Rally. 

READ MORE: Top Spots for a Yorkshire Tea

13. Malton  

Centred around the River Derwent, Malton is one of the prettiest towns in Yorkshire. Besides its good looks, Malton is regionally famous for being ‘Yorkshire’s food capital’. It’s also one of the UK’s most dog-friendly towns. 

The beating heart of Malton is its historic market, but popular attractions also include the Castle Gardens, the Malton Museum and the nearby Flamingo Land Resort, which is one of England’s best theme parks . 

14. Wetherby  

A convenient town to visit on a day trip from Leeds , Wetherby is famous for being an important stop along the historic Great North Road. Today, this town in Yorkshire is ranked as one of the best places to live in North England. 

Visitors flock to Wetherby to stock up on quality goods from the town’s boutiques, watch the races at the Wetherby Racecourse, and cross the Grade II listed Wetherby Bridge that spans the River Wharfe. For an experience with a difference, visit Wetherby in October to attend the town’s month-long cultural festival. 

15. Saltaire  

Last but certainly not least on our list of beautiful towns in Yorkshire is Saltaire, which is a postcard-perfect model Victorian village. It’s also one of our favourite UNESCO sites in England . 

Saltaire is named after the River Aire and its founder, Sir Titus Salt. The village’s Salts Mill is home to the UK’s largest collection of works by David Hockney. Besides Victorian mill buildings, Saltaire is home to many independent shops and cafés.  

If you want to see Saltaire’s surrounding woodlands, we recommend riding the Shipley Glen Tramway. You’ll soon see why Saltaire is widely considered to be one of the prettiest Yorkshire villages. 

What are your favourite towns in Yorkshire?  

The best towns in Yorkshire have something for everyone, whether it’s natural wonders, heritage architecture or stunning beaches. Whether you want to explore a former spa town like Harrogate or a traditional market town such as Hawes, one of Yorkshire’s most interesting towns promises an unforgettable day out in England. 

Are there any amazing towns in Yorkshire that should be on our list? Let us know in the comments below. 

Quick list of the best towns in Yorkshire  

• Knaresborough
• Grassington
• Robin Hood’s Bay
• Huddersfield
• Hebden Bridge
• Latest Posts

• 12 Best Yorkshire Seaside Towns to Visit in 2023 - 23 May 2024
• 15 Most Unique Afternoon Teas in Yorkshire  - 18 April 2024
• Best Itinerary for a Day Out in Derby - 17 January 2024

Do you want to see your favourite England attraction, event or activity listed here? Email us at [email protected] !

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13 Best Places To Visit in Yorkshire (+map and insider tips)

By: Author Angela Price

Posted on Last updated: January 22, 2024

Yorkshire is the largest county in England, full of beautiful towns and villages, some being the prettiest in the UK, so a trip ‘up North’ as the Brits like to say, makes a fabulous destination for a great holiday.

Yorkshire’s towns are nestled in two of the best national parks in England – North York Moors National Park and Yorkshire Dales National Park. It is in these landmark locations that visitors will find the most picturesque countryside in the UK.

Rolling hills and dales are scattered with babbling streams and brooks, while chocolate-box stone cottages and winding cobbled lanes are common in “God’s Own Country” – the fitting title given to Yorkshire.

If you plan on visiting Yorkshire for the first time, the dramatic east coast is a great place to start and is where visitors will find some of the most charming towns and villages in Yorkshire. You will be spoilt for choice from the cute fishing village of Staithes to the historic town of Whitby – famous for its connections to Bram Stoker and Dracula!

Yorkshire is the most historic county in England, and its deep-rooted past is one of the reasons it is so unique. From medieval castles, churches, abbeys and stately houses, Yorkshire’s historical places of interest offer a glimpse into this stunning part of England.

In this post, I have highlighted 13 of the most beautiful places in Yorkshire. Which one of these quaint villages and towns in Yorkshire will be your favourite?

This travel guide may contain affiliate links – please read my  disclaimer and privacy policy for more information.

Do you need to arrange travel insurance, car hire or accommodation? Please check out my  resources page  to help you plan your trip.

Table of Contents

Map of Yorkshire Towns and Villages

Most Charming Towns in the Yorkshire Dales

Ingleton is a charming small town in Yorkshire lying on the southern edge of the  Yorkshire Dales .  Ingleton’s central location means the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park is a short, 30-minute drive away, plus The Lake District and The Forest of Bowland can easily be visited as a day trip. 

Most visitors use Ingleton as a base for enjoying adventurous outdoor activities in the local rural area such as cycling, climbing, hiking and caving. There are guided tours available in Ingleton for these activities, and also plenty of self-guided activities.

One of Yorkshire’s highest peaks, Ingleborough, lies on Ingleton’s doorstep and is a popular hiking route for visitors . Don a hard hat and explore underground at the nearby Yorkshire showcaves Ingleborough Cave or White Scar Cave , the largest show cave in England. Enjoy a seasonal swim in Ingleton’s delightful open-air heated pool or wander along the banks of the River Doe and River Greta to view Ingleton’s impressive, historic viaduct . Visitors can have a go at climbing at the indoor climbing wall at Inglesport outdoors shop.

The highlight of Ingleton has to be the spectacular Ingleton Waterfalls Trail . This beautiful, privately-owned 7-kilometre trail is a riverside woodland trail that passes seven pretty waterfalls on route. My favourite waterfall, Thornton Falls, is idyllic . The path is not technically challenging but is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs, and sturdy footwear is recommended.

After a long day walking, reward yourself with a sweet treat from the enticing Seasons Bakery or a relaxing drink at the quirky microbar, The Old Post Office.

Photo credit – Map Made Memories

Grassington

Grassington is a lovely idyllic Yorkshire town located in the Craven district and the perfect base for exploring the nearby Yorkshire Dales – Wharfedale and Nidderdale. Grassington is one of the best small villages in the Yorkshire Dales and is the perfect place to park up and head out on a walk. Many circular walking routes start in the area and lead you around the wonderful Yorkshire countryside.

One of the most charming walks from Grassington is the Grassington to Conistone walk , leading up through the village to an old drove road, then returning on the Dales Way path. The walk is stunning, leading through endless fields, rivers, and back over banks overlooking the surrounding countryside.

Discovering the Delights of Grassington

Once you have explored the surrounding countryside, you can return to the village and head to one of the many country pubs in Grassington for lunch or find a place to stay in Grassington for longer.

If pub lunches aren’t your style, you can visit a smaller cafe, tea room or the traditional fish and chip shop . The village is a great place to gather with friends for a weekend of fine food and even better views.

If you struggle to walk up hills, you may find reaching the fish and chip shop a struggle, but you can find more places to eat in the village’s main square.

One of my favourite things about Grassington is the unique shops selling homemade products, from fresh produce to woollen items.

The charming cobblestone streets of Grassington create the stunning foreground to many beautiful pictures and is a perfect place to sit, paint, draw or enjoy the scenery. You may also spot some famous film scenes within the picturesque town from Wuthering Heights and Dolittle.

Grassington is a very authentic Yorkshire town and is a great place for visitors to stop and explore.

Photo credit – Inside Our Suitcase

Need A Place to Stay in Yorkshire? Check Out My Review of Stunning Yorkshire Accommodations to Book for a Road Trip

For a perfectly traditional Yorkshire town with an absolutely stunning surrounding landscape, Malham should be at the top of your bucket list. 

You’ll find Malham tucked away in the south of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, nestled between rolling hills, rich meadows and towering limestone gorges . Though the town is tiny, you’ve got enough amenities for an enjoyable stay, with several campsites, B&Bs, pubs and food options. 

It’s as quintessential as you’ll get for the region, filled with friendly local grazing animals and picture-postcard views.

Outdoor Activities in Malham

For most, a trip to Malham is driven by a passion for getting into the surrounding hills – it’s got some of the  best walking trails in the UK .

Plenty of local trails for beginners, all the way to multi-day epics, can take you through the national park.

And it’s not just hiking. Malham is also home to some of the UK’s most challenging and most famous sport climbing routes.

The towering walls of Malham Cov e bring climbers in from around the world, and it’s a marvel to see. 

Malham Tarn Archeological Walk allows hikers to check out archaeological ruins around the reserve.

If you’re visiting, check out Janet’s Foss , a stunning waterfall and natural pool right in the town.

Another incredible natural wonder is Goredale Scar, an imposing limestone gorge with a powerful waterfall coming down. For the adventurous, you can even scrabble up its face to the valley top!

Photo credit – Veggie Vagabonds

Most Beautiful Towns in North Yorkshire

The beautiful Yorkshire town of Harrogate is home to some of the best attractions in Yorkshire and a firm favourite for visitors to North Yorkshire. The Victorian spa town of Harrogate is a good spot for shoppers with a mix of independent and quirky shops alongside high street chain stores.

Betty’s Cafe Tearooms is a destination in its own right and began its story in Harrogate in 1919. The cafe started by selling Yorkshire’s famous ‘Fat Rascal’ scones before evolving into Harrogate’s must-visit attraction.

As a spa town, Harrogate is best known for its Victorian Turkish Spa Baths , dating back to 1897 and fully restored to their former glory. Spend some time relaxing in the warm baths before indulging in a full body massage – heaven!

Harrogate and its surrounding area are rich in historical sites from medieval castles to stately homes and not forgetting Fountains Abbey , Britain’s best-preserved monastic abbey ruins, only a short drive away.

Of course, no visit is complete without a walk around the Valley Gardens Harrogate . The English Heritage Grade II Listed gardens sit along with 17 acres of woodland, known as The Pinewoods.

With plenty of places to stay in Harrogate , you will be spoilt for choice however my personal favourite is Rudding Park Hotel and Spa for a truly indulgent stay.

Pateley Bridge

Pateley Bridge is a small market town in Nidderdale near Harrogate. It is just outside the Yorkshire Dales National Park and is so pretty you can’t help but like it.

Comprising of one main road lined with several independent shops, the first is the oldest sweet shop in England dating back from the 17th century. Follow the Pateley Bridge Heritage Trail and find some other fascinating locations in the town.

Walk from the car park to the top of the road, and you will come across Cocoa Joe’s the chocolate drinks specialist. I chose the origin of chocolate that I wanted it made from (Venezuela), and it was delicious.

A walk through the Pateley Bridge park and along the river is a relaxing way to spend a while or follow the hour-long Bewerley walking trail to Fishpond Wood.

And before you leave this charming town, grab a bite to eat at The Bridge Inn , located by the bridge and river.

Helmsley is one of the prettiest towns in Yorkshire and the only market town in the North York Moors National Park . Set around the market square are several charming tea rooms, small independent shops and boutique galleries. Take time to amble around and enjoy the views of the 900-year-old ruins of Helmsley Castle towering over the town.

Don’t miss Helmsley Walled Gardens ; these are (in our opinion) the star attraction of the town. Within the gardens, you’ll find yourself immersed in a kaleidoscope of floral colours against the backdrop of the castle ruins. They provide the best views of the castle by far, and if you only book one attraction in Helmsley, it should be the Walled Gardens.

The National Bird of Prey Centre in Helmsley provides another wonderful activity and is a great option if exploring with the family. They have 2-3 flight displays per day with different birds and have an indoor area if the weather is bad.

Nearby, you’ll also find Rievaulx Abbey dating back to 1132. It remains one of the most complete of England’s abbey ruins. There is a popular scenic 7-mile circular walking route from Helmsley Castle to Rievaulx Abbey for keen walkers.

There are plenty of places to stay in Helmsley and it makes the perfect base to explore the beautiful Yorkshire towns and countryside. Helmsley is also the start of the Cleveland Way National Trail , so numerous walks and hikes start from this point.

If you are staying in York, Helmsley should definitely be on your list of  things to do near York  as it is only a 40-minute drive away.

Knaresborough

Located only 4 miles from Harrogate and 17 miles from  York  lies Knaresborough, a historic, charming town with medieval characteristics.

The grand Knaresborough viaduct takes centre stage over the River Nidd and today has become a landmark of Knaresborough. The historic town has become increasingly popular because of the rowing boats with the 1851 viaduct and rocky gorge as a backdrop. 

Some of the best things to do in Knaresborough include visiting Knaresborough Castle, built-in 1100 in the Norman period, learning at the museum, appreciating the Bebra Gardens, and exploring Knaresborough Square.

Also, you can walk along the riverside next to the River Nedd, admire the St John the Baptist Church and explore the independent shops in the town.

One of the most popular activities is to hire a rowing boat and take pictures with the viaduct’s arches. Just remember that this activity is only open from March to October because of the great British weather. Luckily, the Knaresborough Visitor Centre has a knowledgeable staff that can help you plan more activities (if you need them) and help you find suitable accommodation.  

I believe a visit to Knaresborough is unforgettable, especially if you visit the 15th-century Mother Shipton Inn , where you can have delicious local food overlooking the River Nidd.

There is so much character to the pub that you can have a quintessentially British experience, and the staff are always helpful and accommodating.

Knaresborough is magical, and there is no denying that it is one of the most beautiful towns in Yorkshire.

Photo credit – Average Lives

Surrounded by the rolling beauty of the Yorkshire Dales, Richmond is an elegant market town and a must-see for anyone road-tripping in Yorkshire . This gem of a town in the county of North Yorkshire was founded by the Normans in 1071, around the “ riche-mont ” or strong hill, that gives the town its name.

First of the Richmonds!

The Richmond in Yorkshire was the first location in the world given the place name Richmond – many have since followed!

Today, the town is dominated by the huge Norman castle, which stands proudly on the skyline overlooking the River Swale, and celebrates its 950th anniversary this year . Recognised as the best-preserved Norman castle in England, Richmond castle has a rich history through the ages and is a highlight of any visit to the town.

With its fabulous position in Swaledale, Richmond is often called “ the gateway to the Dales ”, and there is much to see and do in the town and local area.

Explore the Georgian and Victorian architecture around the lively cobbled marketplace before taking a wander along the rushing Swale river to see the local waterfalls . If you fancy a longer walk, go east along the river for a mile to reach the pretty ruins of Easby Abbey , which dates from 1152.

Around the town, there are fabulous hiking and rambling routes through the Dales or head out with your camera for moody skies, isolated stone barns that characterise the area and lush green patchwork fields.

Check out The Station, a gorgeous Victorian railway station that has been restored and filled with local art and craft exhibits and heritage, an in-house cinema and even an ice-cream parlour. Try Mocha for the best hot chocolate in town!

Idyllic Towns in West Yorkshire

Haworth is a beautiful village in West Yorkshire with its cobbled main street lined by pretty independent stores is known by visitors for being the home of the Bronte sisters , authors of Wuthering Heights. Its rugged and rough landscape was the inspiration for the novel and is now what makes it a magnet for walkers.

For book lovers, Haworth village is really special as it is where Emily Bronte brought to life Cathy and Heathcliff, the lovers from Wuthering Heights. There are many things to do in Haworth, and number one is to visit the  Bronte Parsonage Museum , a look at the Bronte family’s lives in the early 1900s.

Haworth Railway Station is another great place to visit and was the location for the iconic 1970s film ‘ The Railway Children ‘. Watch the steam trains chugging past on their route through the Yorkshire countryside.  

Stroll through Bronte Country

For walkers, there are plenty of chances to enjoy the landscape.  Top Withens Walk  is a popular Yorkshire walk and takes you out of Haworth along signposted pathways to the moorland that inspired the Brontes to write their epic novels. 

The Railway Children was also filmed in Haworth, and visitors can find a walking route map following locations from the film here.

Bronte Waterfall Walk is another charming walk and does not entail climbing up to Top Withens (I chose this as the easier option!)

There are plenty of charming places to stay in Haworth .

He’s more myself than I am. Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same Emily bronte – Wuthering Heights

Hebden Bridge

Hebden Bridge is one of the liveliest artistic communities in Yorkshire, and for a town with only 4,500 living there year-round, there are plenty of things to do.

It is a beautiful old Yorkshire market town, lovingly referred to as the UK’s “ lesbian capital ” due to being an LGBTQ+ friendly town since the 1970s. Hebden Bridge sits directly between Leeds and Manchester, making it the perfect place for a Northern day trip or weekend getaway.

Visitors to Hebden Bridge can enjoy a stroll in Calder Holmes Park , where on sunny days, they can find a cafe selling Northern Bloc ice cream (a Leeds favourite).

And those looking for a gorgeous view over the town and more places to explore can walk up the hill to Heptonstall, a small charming village which seems like it has not changed in the last 200 years.

Hebden Bridge Arts Scene

Music fans should check out the Trades Club listings , a Hebden Bridge institution offering live music, drinks at reasonable prices (unheard of for a gigs venue), and friendly staff. Check out the Hebden Bridge Picture House . One of the few one-screen Art Deco cinemas left in the UK showing the latest arthouse and independent releases.

Hebden Bridge has an incredible cafe scene. Mooch Cafe Bar, the Lovegrows Tearooms and The Art Cafe all offer great coffee with a relaxed, friendly vibe. Those wanting a cosy sit-down meal can head to Aya Sophia or the Old Gate Bar & Restaurant for more traditional pub fare.

The jewel in Hebden Bridge’s crown, however, is Vocation & Co. Brewery . Vocation’s beers are available nationwide, but it all started right here in Hebden Bridge. Vocation’s well-stocked bar will assure you of a good welcome, just like in the rest of the town.

Hebden Bridge has been voted as the “fourth funkiest town in the world”, the best small market town in the UK, and “the greatest town in Europe”.

Prettiest Towns on the East Coast of Yorkshire

Robin hood’s bay.

One of the most charming villages in Yorkshire is Robin Hood’s Bay on the Yorkshire coast, in the North York Moors National Park. If you are looking for a seaside getaway, this is the perfect place.

With a fascinating history of smuggling —back in its heyday in the 18th century, virtually everyone in the town was involved in the smuggling industry.

With the cutest cottages and cobblestone roads, you can easily spend a day wandering in the narrow, winding streets. The town is divided into an upper part, where the main car park is, and a lower part, with the majority of the shops, pubs, and cute streets are located.

You can also visit the Robin Hood’s Bay Museum or the Old Coastguard Station (run by National Trust).

Stretch your legs on the short walk (approximately 1 mile) to Boggle Hole. If you prefer a longer walk, Whitby to Robin Hood’s Bay along the Cleveland Way (approximately 6-7 miles) is one of the best hikes in Yorkshire. The views over the coast are stunning! It’s possible to walk one way and then travel from Robin Hood’s Bay back to Whitby by bus.

Robin Hood’s Bay is also the endpoint for the 182-mile multi-day Coast to Coast walk across the country. Whether you’re hiking to Robin Hood’s Bay or just wanting to relax, enjoy a pint with seaside views at the Bay Hotel in the lower part of the town.

If you are looking for accommodation in Robin Hood’s Bay, please check availability and rates here.

The seaside village of Staithes is a popular place to visit in North Yorkshire and was once one of the largest fishing ports in the North East of England.

Staithes’ charming 18th-century cottages and narrow cobbled streets are reminders of a bygone era in this sleepy village.

Staithes Harbour is as picturesque as any visitor could wish for, with colourful flat-bottomed fishing boats called “ cobles ” bobbing around on the water.

Fishing is still the primary industry in Staithes, so you must visit Cod and Lobster for a freshly caught fish meal. 

For nature lovers, explore the “ Dinosaur Coast ” and try fossil-hunting and pool-dipping.

Several popular coastal trails in Staithes allow walkers to explore the surrounding area with dramatic clifftop views. A popular walking route is Staithes to Port Mulgrave – a circular walk along The Cleveland Way.

The village of Staithes also has a fabulous claim to fame as being where Captain Cook lived and worked and first realised his love of the sea .

Visitors can see a complete replica of the shop he worked in, and the adjoining museum will allow a glimpse into Cook’s life before and during his voyages.

The old village of Staithes has some great places to stay, from charming cottages and B and B’s to the old police station called Peelers Rest!

A round-up of the best towns in Yorkshire wouldn’t be complete without a mention of the famous coastal town of Whitby best known for  Whitby Abbey , the ruins of a Benedictine monastery, which looms over the town below. 

Run by English Heritage, Whitby Abbey was the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula . Take the 199 steps from the Abbey to the sea and follow in Dracula’s footsteps as detailed in the Dracula novel. There are lots of Goth-related paraphernalia in the town thanks to this connection with Dracula. Moreover, Whitby hosts the biggest Goth Weekend in Europe every year.

In addition to Whitby Abbey, the old town was a famous Victorian seaside resort. It was known for producing Jet jewellery (made from black Jet stone) which Queen Victoria made famous for mourning wear.

Whitby Beach is wide and sandy and one of the best beaches in Yorkshire .

In summer, the water attracts holidaymakers even though it won’t match the waters of the Med in temperature! If you want to get on to the water rather than in it, you can take tourist boats to view the beach and harbour from a different perspective. 

Famous Maritime Connections

Before tourism, Whitby had a long maritime tradition. Famous explorer Captain James Cook, famed for discovering New Zealand and Australia , lived in nearby Staithes and learned his trade in Whitby. The whalebone arch on the hill opposite Whitby Abbey also attests to its importance in the whaling trade. Fishing in Whitby is still important to the local economy.

Whitby is also the UK’s number one destination for lovers of the quintessential British seaside meal. Make sure to check out the best fish and chip shops in Whitby on your visit. Also, there are lots of quirky small restaurants and cafes and a couple of well-known fine dining establishments.

With so many things to see and do in Whitby, you may want to stay overnight, and there are plenty of places to stay in Whitby . We stayed in a rental house right in the heart of the old town, which made walking everywhere convenient.

There are parking lots near the old town, but it is best explored on foot as it is a rabbit warren of old narrow streets and some are for pedestrians only. Bigger hotels, like the Dolphin Hotel or Rathwaite Sandsend , are a mile or two outside of Whitby’s historic centre.

I hope this post has shown you the wonders that Yorkshire can offer and will encourage you to visit the county if you haven’t been before.

Of course, there are also some impressive cities in Yorkshire to visit including York – the capital of Yorkshire, Ripon, Leeds, Bradford, Sheffield, Wakefield and Kingston-upon-Hull.

Collectively they are known as the 7 cities of Yorkshire, and you may like to add one of them to your Yorkshire Travel itinerary as a comparison to Yorkshire’s beautiful small towns.

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John and Susan Pazera

Monday 26th of April 2021

What a great resource. Well done!